A500.9.4.RB_LarsonKurt, Blog-Course Reflections

A500.9.4.RB_LarsonKurt, Blog-Course Reflections

This is a bit of a rehash from A500.9.2.DQ, however, With regard to the discussion topic and how it relates from the perception of a learner. One must first realize that most of us in a higher educational environment have for the most part, embarked upon a life of learning and understanding. That is not to say that those not in our category are not learning or seeking to understand themselves, we are simply accomplishing it in a more formal setting.

That said and considering the required reading in  A500.9.1.CR, particularly what was discussed in the purposes of ePortfollios serving four major purposes: to facilitate reflection on learning in a course, to showcase career skills, to aid in program review and assessment and to showcase professional standards. I believe can also be equated to how a student(s) track and chart their own educational destiny.

As example, I began my graduate work in the Project Management arena, only to reevaluate my goals and objectives after four classes in a path I was not willing to continue to follow. This caused me to change to MSLD which is more in-tune with desired career paths.

I believe that the last two course specific classes MSLD 500 and 520 have given me some specific tools to assess not only my educational goals, but my career goals as well. Plus the insight necessary to tailor my skills and education around those career specific goals vs. simply fulfills the requirements of a course or degree work and calling it good-to-go and then putting those skills into practicality.

From the aspect of a course reflection, I still have not understood how the concept mapping is of value? In my opinion, I believe the parent/child relationship with regard to a learning environment is outdated and there are ample other avenues in-use today that can fulfill the needs of group interaction… Blackboard comes to mind.

The courses with-out mid and final exams are a welcome diversion from the typical undergrad and grad courses I am accustomed to. I believe the research, interaction, DQ and Web Log interaction and involvement is sufficient to learn and in-turn reaffirm to the instructor and ERAU that we as students have both an academic and practice grasp of the curriculum.