Online Learning: SUMMARY--PART EIGHT

My first adventure into online learning was a complete success. I was thrilled, motivated and inspired. I looked forward with great anticipation to the next class. I had learned so much. I had learned it was essential for me to take charge of my own learning. I learned this was truly the only way one learned anything worthwhile or meaningful. I learned that once I took charge of my own learning I could direct my own research, ideas, philosophy and principles. I also learned I could learn a lot from other students and that other students could be trusted to give me constructive feedback. I also learned that others had strengths that I model and learn to imitate. I could practice these new skills and compare the results with my new found role model. However, the most important lesson I had learned is that I had a voice. I learned I had something important to say and that others would listen. I learned that as long as I posed real questions and authentically researched the answers I could really learn effectively. Once more, the learning stayed with me. I did not have to memorize it. What I learned became a part of me and had transformed me. This was truly emancipating. Why did it take me so long to get it? Was this kind of learning always available to me in face to face classes? Or, is this what makes eLearning so powerful and transformative? Is it because of the nature of eLearning students are challenged to take on more responsibility because of the way eLearning is organized and presented? These are questions I continue to ponder and I invite you to provide your answers. Please continue to take the journey with me. Stay Tuned for my next Blob entry on eLearning 2.0.