2. Consider these issues and the questions below in your learning journal and discuss them in your groups within the UV online community.
* Was the chosen space suitable for the message and potential audience?
Plone:
Message: Introducing myself, why I am at Ultraversity and possible research ideas
Suitable: In html mode headings can be used for the different topics for simple layout, in content panel mode different panels can be used for different areas
Target Audience: My fellow researchers, researchers from other cohorts and learning facilitators
Suitable for everyone, because Plone is easy to access by clicking on my name in Plone. This way, IT novices can find the space as well.
Convenient to access the page, because we all work in Plone.
First Class:
Message: Not sure about my message, just a page about myself really. I tried to keep it not university-related and more personal
Suitable for the message, as the design and layout are very simple as well.
Target Audience: Fellow researchers
Even though we all have to create our own FC space, I don't think they are very suitable. The web publisher is not very user-friendly, in my opinion. So some pages are simple, others more advanced.
They are not as easy to access, as one has to enter the url into the browser, unless someone provides the direct link to their web page.
Web Blog:
Message: My web blog is my personal learning journal, so no message is being sent to an audience
Suitable as a personal learning journal, but would also be suitable as a personal blog to keep audience up to date with my life.
Target Audience: Myself
My learning journal is for my own reference. Others are welcome to view the blog, quote from it and possibly draw conclusions from it for their own work.
My Web Space (www.cohort6.co.nr):
Message: A platform for C6
Suitable, as the layout it simple and the page is easy to navigate
Target Audience: Fellow researchers
Again, the space is suitable for the audience, because it can be accessed even when Plone or FC are down.
An IT novice may experience some difficulty locating the page (URL has to be entered into browser or link provided), but this far into the course, this should be a minimal problem.
* Were there any ethical issues that you encountered in the development of your online space (confidentiality for example)?
* Did you face any technical challenges and how did you overcome them?
see other post
in iweb: Tables cannot be created in iweb, but I needed them. I designed the tables in Word, made a screen shot and inserted the tables as images.
I found out about this by using google and finding a web page dealing with the downsides of iweb.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
A quick one but long!
Last night was the first big, formal chat. We had invited some learning facilitators, but they didn't show up. I assume Christmas, the re-organisation and the time of the chat play a role here.
It was successful anyway. Trudy and I did a Research in Action by moderating the chat with the Hands Up feature.
This is what I thought of it:
Good
- more organized
- easier to read and follow the discussion
- just like a real meeting
- late arrivals arrived quietly (well done!)
Bad
- not many people there, but some people said too many people were there*1
- The amount of time and the handling of calling people up was not quite perfected yet, understandably. We need to work on this.
*1: A big formal chat is planned for twice a module starting with module 3. I see this as the chance for everyone, incl. LFs to come together. The smaller informal ones will be much easier
I hope people do not think Trudy and I were trying to be special here. It was all about trying to organize this. I think we make a good team.
After the chat, I took the time to get together the transcript, then revised it and made a short version out of it:
Hello everyone,
In an attempt to give a short and easy overview of the chat on Tuesday, December 19, 2006, I have summed up the questions raised and answers given.
Please feel free to add to them!
1. Learning Activity 1: Quotes
How do we quote, what do we do with screen shots, etc!
1.1 Anthony Russell said on FC concerning first class messages to try and keep them concise and minimal!
This is what he said exactly:
I think one main issue emerged - How do you show and reference involvement in both Plone and First Class?
You may wish to include a screen shot to demonstate competence (or excellence!) involving skills. By all means do so but do not forget to explain to the reader why you are including that particular screen shot. How does it demonstrate learning? if you are starting from a low skills base then do not be afraid to say so and to demonstate your struggles. We fully appreciate that our researchers have arrived with a wide variety of skills - It is learning that is important!
You may wish to use a quote from a piece of dialogue in Plone or First Class. Quotes should not be large 'lumps' of text. No more than a few sentences will suffice and very often one or two sentences will be all that is required.
However in the appendices it is good to provide the context from which the quote is taken - This need not be a huge piece but it should help the reader understand why the quote was chosen - provide the time,date and location. It could well be a screen shot but remember it has to be uploaded!
It is not good to simply refer the reader to a 'lump' of text in the appendices. This is leaving the reader to do the analysis.
Examples
"I had a discussion with six people about Plone (see appendix 3)" Would not be good. This might be better:
On the 8th of December I was involved in a dialogue with six other researchers about the advantages and disadvantages of using Plone as an online community tool. The general opinion was that it had more strengths than weaknesses. The following quote is typical." I like Plone beacuse it provides an image of the person you are talking to. It is like a conversation with one person following on from the next." (Appendix 3) However two of the group thought that the lack of a thread, as in FC, was a disadvantage. Cuthbert pointed out that he was especailly interested in Tiddlywinks but that it took him hours identifying specific 'tiddlywink' contributions. He objected to, "endless scrolling." (Appendix 4)
1.2 Question: Do you put screen shots in an appendix and quote in the main work?
Answer: You can put the screenshots in the work - see Anthony Russells message today for clarification about explainig them
It is not sufficient to say 'see appendix 3' need to explain context
2. Learning Activity 2
2.1 Question: Discuss criteria for evaluation and how we are filling in the table
Answer:
About criteria for assessing - I searched the web and found some really useful ideas - just put in "evaluating websites"
2.2 Detail in column
Answers:
• I have put Good- then a comment why i think this
• i used 3 columns: the format in LO, but used a traffic light system, red = bad green = good
LF liked that idea, the comments in each column keeps it KISS like Tony B used to say
2.3 Do words in tables count in word count?
UNANSWERED- needs clarification
Words in Tables do NOT count in Word Count
Are you sure about that? I cannot find proof for it!
No tables do not count - unless they are an obvious attempt to 'hide' words. If they are genuine tables, essential to the piece, they do not count. (LF)
2.4 What about annotations in word count for screen shots etc.
Annotations count, screen shots don't. I have this confirmed by Sarah , my LF (on PLone)
3. Learning Activity 3
3.1 Reflection
http://www.trainer.org.uk/members/theory/process/reflective_cycle.htm
3.2 Evidence
Am I correct in thinking that the names of the people should remain anonymous as with the quotes from researchers in first class?
Researchers cannot be identified
Someone raised the question of how to evidence without mentioning names... my choice is to say 'a fellow researcher...' and to evidence with a screenprint if applicable with names blacked out
3.3 Presentation how is everyone presenting LA3?
3.4 Referencing:
I read somewhere in notes from an LF that quotes from researchers had to "harvard referenced" - can any explain that for me please?
http://www.lc.unsw.edu.au/onlib/ref.html
[ http://libweb.anglia.ac.uk/referencing/harvard.htm ]http://libweb.anglia.ac.uk/referencing/harvard.htm
Harvard referencing — also known as the author-date system[ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvard_reference#_note-0 ][1] and parenthetical system[ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvard_reference#_note-1 ][2] — is a format for writing and organizing [ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citation ]citations of source materials.
Under the Harvard referencing system, a brief citation to a source is given in the text of an article, and full citations collected in alphabetical order under a "References" or "Works Cited" heading at the end. The citation is placed in parentheses after the sentence or part of one, followed by the year of publication, as in (Smith 2005), and a page number where appropriate (Smith 2005, p. 1) or (Smith 2005:1). Then in a References section:
Smith, John. (2005) Harvard Referencing, Florida:Wikimedia Foundation. [ http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=1899235744 ]ISBN 1-899235-74-4.
3.5 Referencing
In LA3 and 4 it says to make notes in our LJs how is everyone referencing them?
copy and pasted - giving a hyperlink would lead to a page with my face on
Incidentally I intend to have a document of supporting evidence with screenshots in context - fuller transcripts and relevant bits of learning journal in context
Screen shots with annotations. E.g. As you can see from the included entry in my LJ, I have....
3.6 Screen shots:
When we have screen shots, would they be better placed in the document or an appendix?
Anthony Russell's message today says to give context in your text
Remember apependix are not marked
I also think that screenshots break up text and make it more reader friendly... James?
Short extracts with the fuller version in the appendix giving context if they want to check seems good compromise
4. Learning Activity 4
In LA4 you need to analysis the theorist you can disagree with their comments as long as you can back it up with your experiences
5. Learning Activity 5
5.1 Intended Learning Outcomes
1. Select a range of appropriate online learning tools for communication with peers. LAs 1,2&5
2. Consider how online community can support learning. LAs 4&5
3. Give examples of their particiaption in the online learning community
LAs 1&5
4. Discuss the development of their ICT capability with reference to the development of their online learning spaces. LAs 1,3,4&5
5. Consider and identify how online community can support the process of learning. LA5
5.2 Assessment criteria
Assessment Criteria is the same as module 1 but with one extra - it is on Plone if you want to download it
[ http://researchers.ultraversity.net/modules/level-one-assessment-criteria-v2 ]http://researchers.ultraversity.net/modules/level-one-assessment-criteria-v2
5.3 Presentation: How are people presenting this Module what media are you using?
I am not using an extensive range of media-
I will be in Word when I get to do it.
I
In fact, everyone said Word!
It was successful anyway. Trudy and I did a Research in Action by moderating the chat with the Hands Up feature.
This is what I thought of it:
Good
- more organized
- easier to read and follow the discussion
- just like a real meeting
- late arrivals arrived quietly (well done!)
Bad
- not many people there, but some people said too many people were there*1
- The amount of time and the handling of calling people up was not quite perfected yet, understandably. We need to work on this.
*1: A big formal chat is planned for twice a module starting with module 3. I see this as the chance for everyone, incl. LFs to come together. The smaller informal ones will be much easier
I hope people do not think Trudy and I were trying to be special here. It was all about trying to organize this. I think we make a good team.
After the chat, I took the time to get together the transcript, then revised it and made a short version out of it:
Hello everyone,
In an attempt to give a short and easy overview of the chat on Tuesday, December 19, 2006, I have summed up the questions raised and answers given.
Please feel free to add to them!
1. Learning Activity 1: Quotes
How do we quote, what do we do with screen shots, etc!
1.1 Anthony Russell said on FC concerning first class messages to try and keep them concise and minimal!
This is what he said exactly:
I think one main issue emerged - How do you show and reference involvement in both Plone and First Class?
You may wish to include a screen shot to demonstate competence (or excellence!) involving skills. By all means do so but do not forget to explain to the reader why you are including that particular screen shot. How does it demonstrate learning? if you are starting from a low skills base then do not be afraid to say so and to demonstate your struggles. We fully appreciate that our researchers have arrived with a wide variety of skills - It is learning that is important!
You may wish to use a quote from a piece of dialogue in Plone or First Class. Quotes should not be large 'lumps' of text. No more than a few sentences will suffice and very often one or two sentences will be all that is required.
However in the appendices it is good to provide the context from which the quote is taken - This need not be a huge piece but it should help the reader understand why the quote was chosen - provide the time,date and location. It could well be a screen shot but remember it has to be uploaded!
It is not good to simply refer the reader to a 'lump' of text in the appendices. This is leaving the reader to do the analysis.
Examples
"I had a discussion with six people about Plone (see appendix 3)" Would not be good. This might be better:
On the 8th of December I was involved in a dialogue with six other researchers about the advantages and disadvantages of using Plone as an online community tool. The general opinion was that it had more strengths than weaknesses. The following quote is typical." I like Plone beacuse it provides an image of the person you are talking to. It is like a conversation with one person following on from the next." (Appendix 3) However two of the group thought that the lack of a thread, as in FC, was a disadvantage. Cuthbert pointed out that he was especailly interested in Tiddlywinks but that it took him hours identifying specific 'tiddlywink' contributions. He objected to, "endless scrolling." (Appendix 4)
1.2 Question: Do you put screen shots in an appendix and quote in the main work?
Answer: You can put the screenshots in the work - see Anthony Russells message today for clarification about explainig them
It is not sufficient to say 'see appendix 3' need to explain context
2. Learning Activity 2
2.1 Question: Discuss criteria for evaluation and how we are filling in the table
Answer:
About criteria for assessing - I searched the web and found some really useful ideas - just put in "evaluating websites"
2.2 Detail in column
Answers:
• I have put Good- then a comment why i think this
• i used 3 columns: the format in LO, but used a traffic light system, red = bad green = good
LF liked that idea, the comments in each column keeps it KISS like Tony B used to say
2.3 Do words in tables count in word count?
UNANSWERED- needs clarification
Words in Tables do NOT count in Word Count
Are you sure about that? I cannot find proof for it!
No tables do not count - unless they are an obvious attempt to 'hide' words. If they are genuine tables, essential to the piece, they do not count. (LF)
2.4 What about annotations in word count for screen shots etc.
Annotations count, screen shots don't. I have this confirmed by Sarah , my LF (on PLone)
3. Learning Activity 3
3.1 Reflection
http://www.trainer.org.uk/members/theory/process/reflective_cycle.htm
3.2 Evidence
Am I correct in thinking that the names of the people should remain anonymous as with the quotes from researchers in first class?
Researchers cannot be identified
Someone raised the question of how to evidence without mentioning names... my choice is to say 'a fellow researcher...' and to evidence with a screenprint if applicable with names blacked out
3.3 Presentation how is everyone presenting LA3?
3.4 Referencing:
I read somewhere in notes from an LF that quotes from researchers had to "harvard referenced" - can any explain that for me please?
http://www.lc.unsw.edu.au/onlib/ref.html
[ http://libweb.anglia.ac.uk/referencing/harvard.htm ]http://libweb.anglia.ac.uk/referencing/harvard.htm
Harvard referencing — also known as the author-date system[ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvard_reference#_note-0 ][1] and parenthetical system[ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvard_reference#_note-1 ][2] — is a format for writing and organizing [ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citation ]citations of source materials.
Under the Harvard referencing system, a brief citation to a source is given in the text of an article, and full citations collected in alphabetical order under a "References" or "Works Cited" heading at the end. The citation is placed in parentheses after the sentence or part of one, followed by the year of publication, as in (Smith 2005), and a page number where appropriate (Smith 2005, p. 1) or (Smith 2005:1). Then in a References section:
Smith, John. (2005) Harvard Referencing, Florida:Wikimedia Foundation. [ http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=1899235744 ]ISBN 1-899235-74-4.
3.5 Referencing
In LA3 and 4 it says to make notes in our LJs how is everyone referencing them?
copy and pasted - giving a hyperlink would lead to a page with my face on
Incidentally I intend to have a document of supporting evidence with screenshots in context - fuller transcripts and relevant bits of learning journal in context
Screen shots with annotations. E.g. As you can see from the included entry in my LJ, I have....
3.6 Screen shots:
When we have screen shots, would they be better placed in the document or an appendix?
Anthony Russell's message today says to give context in your text
Remember apependix are not marked
I also think that screenshots break up text and make it more reader friendly... James?
Short extracts with the fuller version in the appendix giving context if they want to check seems good compromise
4. Learning Activity 4
In LA4 you need to analysis the theorist you can disagree with their comments as long as you can back it up with your experiences
5. Learning Activity 5
5.1 Intended Learning Outcomes
1. Select a range of appropriate online learning tools for communication with peers. LAs 1,2&5
2. Consider how online community can support learning. LAs 4&5
3. Give examples of their particiaption in the online learning community
LAs 1&5
4. Discuss the development of their ICT capability with reference to the development of their online learning spaces. LAs 1,3,4&5
5. Consider and identify how online community can support the process of learning. LA5
5.2 Assessment criteria
Assessment Criteria is the same as module 1 but with one extra - it is on Plone if you want to download it
[ http://researchers.ultraversity.net/modules/level-one-assessment-criteria-v2 ]http://researchers.ultraversity.net/modules/level-one-assessment-criteria-v2
5.3 Presentation: How are people presenting this Module what media are you using?
I am not using an extensive range of media-
I will be in Word when I get to do it.
I
In fact, everyone said Word!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Still to do
+ change First Class website and really learn about it
+ read some more literature
+ compare web pages
+ change my MSN password for direct log-in
+ read some more literature
+ compare web pages
+ change my MSN password for direct log-in
Server downtime
Instead of creating a message board, I created a yahoo group for the server downtime. I hope people will sign up and understand yahoo groups. It is very flexible and versatile, a lot of options are available.
I guess this is just another learning experience and we have to survive and finish the module regardless of the server downtime!
And, I believe: WE CAN DO IT!
I guess this is just another learning experience and we have to survive and finish the module regardless of the server downtime!
And, I believe: WE CAN DO IT!
Plone webspace
All the time I was wondering how to set up content panels in Plone. I had read a few descriptions, but most of them were reduced to 'Just click add content panel', which obviously didn't work for me.
So, initially, I created the Plone webspace as a normal document, but made headings, structured the text and added a picture. I also added a table. This was all standard stuff I had done before, so I didn't feel like I had learnt much, apart from using a new editor (kupu).
Here is a screen shot of what it used to look like:
So, initially, I created the Plone webspace as a normal document, but made headings, structured the text and added a picture. I also added a table. This was all standard stuff I had done before, so I didn't feel like I had learnt much, apart from using a new editor (kupu).
Here is a screen shot of what it used to look like:
A few days ago, Rob from Cohort 5 popped in and posted a long message about how to set up content panels.
His description was so detailed and 'easy', that I had a go at it yesterday. And ta-da, this is it:
So, initially, I created the Plone webspace as a normal document, but made headings, structured the text and added a picture. I also added a table. This was all standard stuff I had done before, so I didn't feel like I had learnt much, apart from using a new editor (kupu).
Here is a screen shot of what it used to look like:
So, initially, I created the Plone webspace as a normal document, but made headings, structured the text and added a picture. I also added a table. This was all standard stuff I had done before, so I didn't feel like I had learnt much, apart from using a new editor (kupu).
Here is a screen shot of what it used to look like:
A few days ago, Rob from Cohort 5 popped in and posted a long message about how to set up content panels.
His description was so detailed and 'easy', that I had a go at it yesterday. And ta-da, this is it:
Content panels, if used in moderation and in a good layout, make the website look so much nicer and interesting! I have seen content panels used on many professional webpages and am really happy that I learnt something new!
Sunday, December 10, 2006
New technology
I used Excel for the first time today.
In order to evaluate my criteria for webspace evaluation, I created a questionnaire and sent it to cohort 6 members.
With the information received, I created a bar chart and a pie chart.
This made me feel very accomplished and I am not sure I have mastered an important step!
In order to evaluate my criteria for webspace evaluation, I created a questionnaire and sent it to cohort 6 members.
With the information received, I created a bar chart and a pie chart.
This made me feel very accomplished and I am not sure I have mastered an important step!
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Results and a few thoughts
We finally got our results for Module 1 yesterday. I am very pleased with mine and the 'Tips for Improvement' are VERY VERY useful. I may just have to post them here at a later date, so I will constantly be reminded of those!
One of them was, be more critical. And all the while during the assignment I thought: I should really be a little bit more critical. I only managed to do that towards the end, where I am critical with myself.
Well done, me though! An A (excellent) is awesome.
And well done everyone else! I was very happy to hear from so many people who did so well! I am happy for all of you. I don't think anyone failed, which is lovely.
Now that I have said this, here are a few thoughts I had in bed this morning:
- FC: People post more and more, which is nice, because interaction is important, but it feels like there are repetitive posts and people do not use the Archive or FIND (search) option before they post a query.
In addition, people post rather private messages on the C6 forum. Those should, in my opinion, be send privately and not through the whole discussion.
Why? Because it results in a HUGE amount of red flags, which is hard to cope with if you do not log in every few hours.
- FC web publishing: I finally realized how to change my appearance (i.e. add frames, search, etc): By clicking on the Appearance button. Am I blind, or what?
I also need to have a GOOD look at all those documents that were sent by Tony, because I do not know how to add Links to the side bar yet.
- The server downtime: It is causing people to panic and the LFs have not said anything yet. Should I set up a message board and mailing list so we can continue to communicate? I think yes! My time may say no!
But I should suggest it anyway.
- LA 1: I have started it but need to seriously revise it. I added too much theory, which is really part of LA 4.
My own deadline for LA 2 was Dec 6th, so I better get cracking this weekend! I am behind already!
One of them was, be more critical. And all the while during the assignment I thought: I should really be a little bit more critical. I only managed to do that towards the end, where I am critical with myself.
Well done, me though! An A (excellent) is awesome.
And well done everyone else! I was very happy to hear from so many people who did so well! I am happy for all of you. I don't think anyone failed, which is lovely.
Now that I have said this, here are a few thoughts I had in bed this morning:
- FC: People post more and more, which is nice, because interaction is important, but it feels like there are repetitive posts and people do not use the Archive or FIND (search) option before they post a query.
In addition, people post rather private messages on the C6 forum. Those should, in my opinion, be send privately and not through the whole discussion.
Why? Because it results in a HUGE amount of red flags, which is hard to cope with if you do not log in every few hours.
- FC web publishing: I finally realized how to change my appearance (i.e. add frames, search, etc): By clicking on the Appearance button. Am I blind, or what?
I also need to have a GOOD look at all those documents that were sent by Tony, because I do not know how to add Links to the side bar yet.
- The server downtime: It is causing people to panic and the LFs have not said anything yet. Should I set up a message board and mailing list so we can continue to communicate? I think yes! My time may say no!
But I should suggest it anyway.
- LA 1: I have started it but need to seriously revise it. I added too much theory, which is really part of LA 4.
My own deadline for LA 2 was Dec 6th, so I better get cracking this weekend! I am behind already!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Reflection on yesterday's chat discussion
Yesterday was the first time we arranged a chat discussion using the new feature 'Meeting Room Live'. Lindsey and I talked on MSN beforehand and agreed to moderate one chatroom each: She opted for the LA 1 and 2 discussion and I took on the LA 3, 4 and 5 discussion. The General Discussion was going to be left unmoderated.
In an attempt to make the chat discussion easy, short and to the point, I did post a thread on FirstClass earlier with some ground rules and the questions we asked people to submit during the week.
I stated that the chat should not be used for private discussion, that it should not last longer than 30 min and so on.
Before I submitted the post, I had sent it to Lindsey to see if it was okay. She agreed with it and it was posted.
At 9.30 pm people started joining the LA 1 and 2 discussion. The LA 3, 4 and 5 discussion was left deserted. I assume that most people just have not started those yet and wanted to clarify all questions for LA 1 and 2 before continuing the journey.
The chat room was unnecessary, but I'm still happy I created it. Even though there was no demand for it, it was good to have it on offer.
I had also joined the LA 1 and 2 discussion to keep on top of things.
The first thing I realized was that, even though it was posted in the chat room itself (and catch-up was enabled) and in several posts on FC beforehand, people asked if there would be a transcript available and if the chat had started yet.
Also, some of the questions asked and discussed were already answered by Learning Facilitators in Plone and FC. Therefore, I would consider them 'a waste of time'. It also showed that some people have not yet really gotten the hang of checking Plone, FC and previous posts on a regular basis.
Some things were discussed in early chats, which can be read as transcripts. I understand that 30-page transcripts can be daunting, so I have decided to extract the main questions and answers from this chat discussion, once I find the time. I will also ask fellow 'moderators' to do so.
Reading through the chat transcript of the LA1 and 2 discussion, I am impressed that Lindsey kept the conversations to the point, even though people were tempted to discuss other things.
My hope is that people will start posting any questions they have on FC (under the respective threads), so we can arrange the chats upfront.
I was also busy in the General Discussion. It was not really about Module 2 this time, but something, that effects all people in Cohort 6 in regards to Module 2.
Ultraversity and ARU have announced a complete server downtime just before christmas and an 'at risk' connection that cannot be guaranteed and may produce loss of data, until the new year.
This is going to be a real problem for some people in Cohort 6, because this module is based on online communication within the group. This will be impossible at that time. The deadline for the module is January 5th, so most researchers will have planned that time (christmas and new years) for intensive online discussion.
Looking back at Module 1, the last two weeks before the deadline were very busy in the community. I can only assume this will be the same for Module 2.
We have decided to propose a 7 day extension on the deadline due to the downtime.
This is all for now.
In an attempt to make the chat discussion easy, short and to the point, I did post a thread on FirstClass earlier with some ground rules and the questions we asked people to submit during the week.
I stated that the chat should not be used for private discussion, that it should not last longer than 30 min and so on.
Before I submitted the post, I had sent it to Lindsey to see if it was okay. She agreed with it and it was posted.
At 9.30 pm people started joining the LA 1 and 2 discussion. The LA 3, 4 and 5 discussion was left deserted. I assume that most people just have not started those yet and wanted to clarify all questions for LA 1 and 2 before continuing the journey.
The chat room was unnecessary, but I'm still happy I created it. Even though there was no demand for it, it was good to have it on offer.
I had also joined the LA 1 and 2 discussion to keep on top of things.
The first thing I realized was that, even though it was posted in the chat room itself (and catch-up was enabled) and in several posts on FC beforehand, people asked if there would be a transcript available and if the chat had started yet.
Also, some of the questions asked and discussed were already answered by Learning Facilitators in Plone and FC. Therefore, I would consider them 'a waste of time'. It also showed that some people have not yet really gotten the hang of checking Plone, FC and previous posts on a regular basis.
Some things were discussed in early chats, which can be read as transcripts. I understand that 30-page transcripts can be daunting, so I have decided to extract the main questions and answers from this chat discussion, once I find the time. I will also ask fellow 'moderators' to do so.
Reading through the chat transcript of the LA1 and 2 discussion, I am impressed that Lindsey kept the conversations to the point, even though people were tempted to discuss other things.
My hope is that people will start posting any questions they have on FC (under the respective threads), so we can arrange the chats upfront.
I was also busy in the General Discussion. It was not really about Module 2 this time, but something, that effects all people in Cohort 6 in regards to Module 2.
Ultraversity and ARU have announced a complete server downtime just before christmas and an 'at risk' connection that cannot be guaranteed and may produce loss of data, until the new year.
This is going to be a real problem for some people in Cohort 6, because this module is based on online communication within the group. This will be impossible at that time. The deadline for the module is January 5th, so most researchers will have planned that time (christmas and new years) for intensive online discussion.
Looking back at Module 1, the last two weeks before the deadline were very busy in the community. I can only assume this will be the same for Module 2.
We have decided to propose a 7 day extension on the deadline due to the downtime.
This is all for now.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Module 2, LA 3: Problems while working on LA2
-->Just posted this in First Class<--
While working on LA 2, I hardly encountered any problems with Plone. FirstClass was a very different matter however.
Plone problems:
- Needed to change from summary view to content view
Solution:Posted on FC, received reply from LF.
- Inserting pictures
Solution:I looked at the information provided on the IOCT web page, where it was explained in detail
I managed to set up most of the website on Plone by just trying out different things, including adding external and internal links, adding tables and enabling the add comment option. I also created a message board, which I had to link as an external page, because it doesn't show up as an option for internal links.
First Class:
At first it reminded me of iWeb, which is the Apple Macintosh application offered as part of iLife '06.
But I quickly found out it is a lot harder to understand.
Problems:
- Linking inbetween the pages (still have not found a nicer way to do it)
- Adding Links (I read the information provided by Tony Browne and found out that by highlighting and right/Ctrl-clicking I can choose the options Make Link and Format Link)
- Formatting the page (I found a way to format the margins, but still not a way to make the whole page look more sophisticated)
- Content view (At first I had called my Welcome page 'Welcome', but when I read Tony Browne's document, I found out it needs to be called 'Home Page', in order to show the webpage.)
- The View Browser option (When clicking on view in browser, the link comes up as http://firstclass.ultraversity.net/~jessica_kelleher/. Luckily, my fellow researcher Lindsey McDonald had previously mentioned that the _ (under-dash) needed to be replaced with a . (dot))
While working on LA 2, I hardly encountered any problems with Plone. FirstClass was a very different matter however.
Plone problems:
- Needed to change from summary view to content view
Solution:Posted on FC, received reply from LF.
- Inserting pictures
Solution:I looked at the information provided on the IOCT web page, where it was explained in detail
I managed to set up most of the website on Plone by just trying out different things, including adding external and internal links, adding tables and enabling the add comment option. I also created a message board, which I had to link as an external page, because it doesn't show up as an option for internal links.
First Class:
At first it reminded me of iWeb, which is the Apple Macintosh application offered as part of iLife '06.
But I quickly found out it is a lot harder to understand.
Problems:
- Linking inbetween the pages (still have not found a nicer way to do it)
- Adding Links (I read the information provided by Tony Browne and found out that by highlighting and right/Ctrl-clicking I can choose the options Make Link and Format Link)
- Formatting the page (I found a way to format the margins, but still not a way to make the whole page look more sophisticated)
- Content view (At first I had called my Welcome page 'Welcome', but when I read Tony Browne's document, I found out it needs to be called 'Home Page', in order to show the webpage.)
- The View Browser option (When clicking on view in browser, the link comes up as http://firstclass.ultraversity.net/~jessica_kelleher/. Luckily, my fellow researcher Lindsey McDonald had previously mentioned that the _ (under-dash) needed to be replaced with a . (dot))
Module 2: FirstClass page
I finally managed to get my FirstClass page up and running. I feel there are too many websites that need to be made and I am seriously running out of content.
This was certainly the hardest task so far, because I couldn't really tweak things as easily as usually. I found the web publishing feature similar to iweb at first, but all in all it is far more advanced, but also limiting. Guess there is a need for me to read up on that in more detail.
My home in Plone is my personal preference though. You can do so much more with it, but then again, you may be able to do those things in FC as well.
The exhaustion from the weekend is finally wearing off, so hopefully I will be able to make it to the chat discussions tonight. I also think I need to refocus and look at the Learning Assignments again.
Guess my computer will accompany me to my student today. I have to prepare a HARD English test for him, that will hopefully take him an hour to complete.
Anyway.... guess I better start getting back to work here!
This was certainly the hardest task so far, because I couldn't really tweak things as easily as usually. I found the web publishing feature similar to iweb at first, but all in all it is far more advanced, but also limiting. Guess there is a need for me to read up on that in more detail.
My home in Plone is my personal preference though. You can do so much more with it, but then again, you may be able to do those things in FC as well.
The exhaustion from the weekend is finally wearing off, so hopefully I will be able to make it to the chat discussions tonight. I also think I need to refocus and look at the Learning Assignments again.
Guess my computer will accompany me to my student today. I have to prepare a HARD English test for him, that will hopefully take him an hour to complete.
Anyway.... guess I better start getting back to work here!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Module 2/LA2: Assessment criteria for websites
For module 2 , LA2, we need to compare our website to at least two others.
We need to find criteria for this.
Two suggestions were given:
Effectiveness of Communication
Use of Graphics
This is what I found on another website regarding website assessment criteria:
Content relevance
Content accessibility
Content selection
Content validity
Content interchange
Site transparency/credibility
Links
Quality assurance
Safeguards
I put those in bold that I consider useful for LA 2. Any takers?? Any comments?
We need to find criteria for this.
Two suggestions were given:
Effectiveness of Communication
Use of Graphics
This is what I found on another website regarding website assessment criteria:
Content relevance
Content accessibility
Content selection
Content validity
Content interchange
Site transparency/credibility
Links
Quality assurance
Safeguards
I put those in bold that I consider useful for LA 2. Any takers?? Any comments?
Module 2/LA1: Relative Merits of three online tools
Okay, the second part of the written assignment is to consider the relative merits of at least three online tools.
Now, I asked about the term relative merits in the chat discussion yesterday, and we came to the conclusion that this means to consider the advantages and disadvantages.
So, this has been sorted out. Good to understand the task before you start it!
The three online tools I would like to consider are:
Online Forums
Instant Messenger
Google Video
I am very familiar with the first two, but quite new to Google Video. I have used it before, but not thought about its merits and actual purpose (other than providing me with entertainment).
Now, I asked about the term relative merits in the chat discussion yesterday, and we came to the conclusion that this means to consider the advantages and disadvantages.
So, this has been sorted out. Good to understand the task before you start it!
The three online tools I would like to consider are:
Online Forums
Instant Messenger
Google Video
I am very familiar with the first two, but quite new to Google Video. I have used it before, but not thought about its merits and actual purpose (other than providing me with entertainment).
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
OT: Where is my mind?
I feel terrible today, for absolutely no reason. But being a fairly emotional learner, I cannot get any work done, even though I especially cancelled a trip to the Olympic Stadium this morning to get my written assignment done. However, I have not touched it and just looking at it makes me more miserable.
I have to leave for work in 25 min, so I guess the written work has to wait, unless I'm taking my computer to work. Which may be a good idea.
I want my enthusiasm back from yesterday!!!!!
I have to leave for work in 25 min, so I guess the written work has to wait, unless I'm taking my computer to work. Which may be a good idea.
I want my enthusiasm back from yesterday!!!!!
Monday, November 27, 2006
Module 2/ LA 1: Reading Notes and Thoughts
Main differentiation of online communication tools:
1) Asynchronous Communication: Different time, different place
2) Synchronous Communication: Same time
1) Asynchronous Communication:
- Online Forums (such as: IAMX Forum)
- Guestbooks
- Websites (such as MySpace, Guardian)
- Blogs (such as this one)
- E-Mail (such as: GMail/GoogleMail
- First Class Ultraversity Discussion Forums
Pros
- everyone can be reached and reply at a time suitable for them
- time to consider answers --> RICH contextual exchange
(messages, comments tend to be longer and have more content)
- no time restrictions
- no scheduled events
- building relationships over time
Cons
- it may take a while to receive desired answer/comment/feedback
- no 'direct' contact
- it can take a long time to reach a decision with a group of people
- hard to finish/close a topic
2) Synchronous Communication:
- Online Chat (such as: Java Chat Rooms or IRC Channel Chat Rooms)
- Instant Messenger (such as AIM, MSN, Skype)
- Whiteboards
- First Class Server (Ultraversity) IM
Pros
- immediate feedback/comments/answers
- 'warm' conversation
- quick decisions can be made
- relationship building
- easy to exchange information and comments
Cons
- hard to arrange chats with a group of people
- some people may have trouble following the conversation
- slow typers may not be able to have much input
- 'techno-phobes' may be put off
CONCLUSION
The right combination of asynchronous and synchronous tools is necessary for good communication online.
1) Asynchronous Communication: Different time, different place
2) Synchronous Communication: Same time
1) Asynchronous Communication:
- Online Forums (such as: IAMX Forum)
- Guestbooks
- Websites (such as MySpace, Guardian)
- Blogs (such as this one)
- E-Mail (such as: GMail/GoogleMail
- First Class Ultraversity Discussion Forums
Pros
- everyone can be reached and reply at a time suitable for them
- time to consider answers --> RICH contextual exchange
(messages, comments tend to be longer and have more content)
- no time restrictions
- no scheduled events
- building relationships over time
Cons
- it may take a while to receive desired answer/comment/feedback
- no 'direct' contact
- it can take a long time to reach a decision with a group of people
- hard to finish/close a topic
2) Synchronous Communication:
- Online Chat (such as: Java Chat Rooms or IRC Channel Chat Rooms)
- Instant Messenger (such as AIM, MSN, Skype)
- Whiteboards
- First Class Server (Ultraversity) IM
Pros
- immediate feedback/comments/answers
- 'warm' conversation
- quick decisions can be made
- relationship building
- easy to exchange information and comments
Cons
- hard to arrange chats with a group of people
- some people may have trouble following the conversation
- slow typers may not be able to have much input
- 'techno-phobes' may be put off
CONCLUSION
The right combination of asynchronous and synchronous tools is necessary for good communication online.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Module 2, LA 2 Resume
I have created my resume on First Class. I looked at a few different level resumes beforehand, which inspired me to make it the way it is now.
In fact, a Junior Mac Creator inspired me to make something different.
It was easy for me to create a picture (.jpg) in Adobe Photoshop. I have done this before. I selected a background color and then added text. Additionally, I added puppy footprints to make it more unique.
I like it.
Really tired after a busy day at work, so going to keep this short. Making the resume made me feel accomplished.
In fact, a Junior Mac Creator inspired me to make something different.
It was easy for me to create a picture (.jpg) in Adobe Photoshop. I have done this before. I selected a background color and then added text. Additionally, I added puppy footprints to make it more unique.
I like it.
Really tired after a busy day at work, so going to keep this short. Making the resume made me feel accomplished.
Module 2/ LA 1: Online Tools
For LA 1 in Module 2, Introduction to Online Communication and Technology, I need to make a list of online tools I have used before and describe them. This is my attempt to do so.
Please feel free to comment on them!
E-Mail:
Web-based e-mail, e.g. Gmail: Web-based email allows you to check your email from any device, anywhere in the world, by going to the website and entering your account name and password. It does not require any other setup. It is convenient for people who do not have their own notebook and need to rely on different computers, e.g. in Internet Cafes, all the time.
POP e-mail with a mail application, e.g. Mail or Outlook Express: With POP3 services, you can download your emails onto your computer and view them without an internet connection as well. Some web-based services allow you to download the emails as well (such as Gmail/GoogleMail). You require your username and password, as well as the server settings for the email service. A very convenient way to handle emails, esp. if you only access it from one computer (e.g. your desktop computer or notebook.
Internal E-mail: A part of First Class is the email service. It only allows internal emails to be sent back and forth between people who have access to that particular First Class server.
E-Mail Newsletters:
I receive email newsletters that I have subscribed to. Most of the services I subscribed to provide me with up-to-date news of a website.
I also send out a newsletter for a website I help to maintain. When there are news for the band the website is about, such as new releases and tour dates, I prepare a newsletter with a short introduction about the news and a link to the website.
Then it is sent out to those people, who subscribed to the service.
Mailing Lists:
Yahoo Groups is the main provider of mailing list services I can think of. A few years ago, I created a few mailing lists on there, in order to discuss bands.
Nowadays, online forums and message boards have mainly taken over, in my opinion.
Online Conferencing/Online Forums:
This is probably the most important communication tool on the internet at the moment.
I use many different internet forums, covering all different topics, such as news forums, student forums, teacher and education forums, music forums, and the First Class Server Cohort 6 and all other Ultraversity Online Forums. (Although I need to use the First Class client for it).
Some of those forums are for communication, but all in all, it is always a huge exchange of information.
Chat:
I normally use chats to communicate with more than one person at the same time. It is very useful to discuss a topic, but also to receive feedback and comments quickly. A good example are the Online Chats in Cohort 6 that have taken place.
Instant Messaging:
I use for IM applications: AOL Instant Messager (AIM), Microsoft Messenger (MSN), Skype and First Class IM.
AIM: I use the ichat client that is part of iLife on a Mac system. This is the application I primarily use to talk to friends and family. It has the added bonus of voice chat and camera conferencing.
MSN: I use MSN for conversations with other researcher at Ultraversity, as well as other members of a forum I visit a lot. The Mac version of MSN is limited, so no voice chats or camera chats are possible.
Skype: The application for internet telephony. I use this a lot to talk to friends around the world. I can call their computers by adding their username to my Skype, but I can also call normal phones by purchasing credit. This is very useful when traveling. In fact, the first contact I had with Ultraversity was initiated by Skype (An Ultraversity LF called my mobile phone with Skype). I also have talked to my LF on Skype (instant messaging and phone call).
First Class IM: When I am using the FC application, I check who is online and if I want to talk to anyone. In fact, the C6 chats have been through the IM system as well. I can see all Ultraversity members that are currently online and invite them to talk to me.
Instant Messaging, as a synchronous online communication tool, is the best way to stay in touch with people. Questions can be answered almost immediately. Comments and feedback are in real-time. A good way to exchange information and build relationships.
These are the majority of Online Tools I have used.
Please feel free to comment on them!
E-Mail:
Web-based e-mail, e.g. Gmail: Web-based email allows you to check your email from any device, anywhere in the world, by going to the website and entering your account name and password. It does not require any other setup. It is convenient for people who do not have their own notebook and need to rely on different computers, e.g. in Internet Cafes, all the time.
POP e-mail with a mail application, e.g. Mail or Outlook Express: With POP3 services, you can download your emails onto your computer and view them without an internet connection as well. Some web-based services allow you to download the emails as well (such as Gmail/GoogleMail). You require your username and password, as well as the server settings for the email service. A very convenient way to handle emails, esp. if you only access it from one computer (e.g. your desktop computer or notebook.
Internal E-mail: A part of First Class is the email service. It only allows internal emails to be sent back and forth between people who have access to that particular First Class server.
E-Mail Newsletters:
I receive email newsletters that I have subscribed to. Most of the services I subscribed to provide me with up-to-date news of a website.
I also send out a newsletter for a website I help to maintain. When there are news for the band the website is about, such as new releases and tour dates, I prepare a newsletter with a short introduction about the news and a link to the website.
Then it is sent out to those people, who subscribed to the service.
Mailing Lists:
Yahoo Groups is the main provider of mailing list services I can think of. A few years ago, I created a few mailing lists on there, in order to discuss bands.
Nowadays, online forums and message boards have mainly taken over, in my opinion.
Online Conferencing/Online Forums:
This is probably the most important communication tool on the internet at the moment.
I use many different internet forums, covering all different topics, such as news forums, student forums, teacher and education forums, music forums, and the First Class Server Cohort 6 and all other Ultraversity Online Forums. (Although I need to use the First Class client for it).
Some of those forums are for communication, but all in all, it is always a huge exchange of information.
Chat:
I normally use chats to communicate with more than one person at the same time. It is very useful to discuss a topic, but also to receive feedback and comments quickly. A good example are the Online Chats in Cohort 6 that have taken place.
Instant Messaging:
I use for IM applications: AOL Instant Messager (AIM), Microsoft Messenger (MSN), Skype and First Class IM.
AIM: I use the ichat client that is part of iLife on a Mac system. This is the application I primarily use to talk to friends and family. It has the added bonus of voice chat and camera conferencing.
MSN: I use MSN for conversations with other researcher at Ultraversity, as well as other members of a forum I visit a lot. The Mac version of MSN is limited, so no voice chats or camera chats are possible.
Skype: The application for internet telephony. I use this a lot to talk to friends around the world. I can call their computers by adding their username to my Skype, but I can also call normal phones by purchasing credit. This is very useful when traveling. In fact, the first contact I had with Ultraversity was initiated by Skype (An Ultraversity LF called my mobile phone with Skype). I also have talked to my LF on Skype (instant messaging and phone call).
First Class IM: When I am using the FC application, I check who is online and if I want to talk to anyone. In fact, the C6 chats have been through the IM system as well. I can see all Ultraversity members that are currently online and invite them to talk to me.
Instant Messaging, as a synchronous online communication tool, is the best way to stay in touch with people. Questions can be answered almost immediately. Comments and feedback are in real-time. A good way to exchange information and build relationships.
These are the majority of Online Tools I have used.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
New Design
In an attempt to make this learning journal more suitable for me, my work and people who view it, I have decided to tag all posts according to their content.
I tried to work with the integrated iWeb blog, but it doesn't let people comment, so I am switching back to this blog from now on.
Module 1 of the degree is now completed and I have submitted it! On to Module 2.
I have also created a website for Cohort 6: Cohort 6 website!!!
I tried to work with the integrated iWeb blog, but it doesn't let people comment, so I am switching back to this blog from now on.
Module 1 of the degree is now completed and I have submitted it! On to Module 2.
I have also created a website for Cohort 6: Cohort 6 website!!!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
0010: The day to create my Module website
I have started work on my complete module one work. I’m excited that I got this far and can’t wait to see the end result. So, back to work for me!
- Jessica
- Jessica
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
0008
I have not been doing anything for Ultraversity the past week, because of my exams at Humboldt University this week. The first one was yesterday and it was okay. I was studying so hard for the literary theory part, but I couldn't answer the questions at all. I didn't attend that semester after all. I hope I still scored a point or two. But wow, I learn all about poems, and prose and theories about literature, and we get three rather stupid questions. Ah well...
The literary history part was easy enough. I was hoping for a modern American drama essay question and a Whitman/Dickinson one and .... TA DA! Those were two of the six questions.
I think I did well in those questions and even answered a third on (we only had to choose two) in order to hopefully score another extra point to make up for the rotten theory part.
But, no time to slack, I need to study for cultural theory and history now!
The literary history part was easy enough. I was hoping for a modern American drama essay question and a Whitman/Dickinson one and .... TA DA! Those were two of the six questions.
I think I did well in those questions and even answered a third on (we only had to choose two) in order to hopefully score another extra point to make up for the rotten theory part.
But, no time to slack, I need to study for cultural theory and history now!
Monday, October 09, 2006
0007: Things I want to remember
One element we try to develop with researchers is an ability to look at a situation from a range of perspectives. A good manager for example can understand how different employees will view change and can therefore factor that into his / her approach. As employees we tend to see things only from our own point of view. Try to put a situation in the centre of a circle and then stand in different positions around the circle to see it from a different perspective. A = my take on it, B = My bosses take on it, C = the customer / pupils view on it, D = the supplier / parents view on it.
What we are trying to achieve in this module is for you to consider your role, strengths and weaknesses as you see it but also from other perspectives too. As an identical twin I am used to looking at my sister and seeing myself...very disconcerting at first because you really see all the negatives as well as the positives! Certain things may well shock you at first..but seeing yourself through someone else's eyes can bring huge strength, just don't take anything personally. See it as an opportunity to move forward because you understand yourself far better than you thought you did.
-------
When looking at a day in your working life you are probably not doing anything you don't normally do.
"When you look back on any given day you don’t just think about what happened you think about its impact, about how you felt. You distill the new experience through past experience!
– you wonder why X said Y and if it was hurtful, informative, a smoke screen etc.? You wonder if you should have done something differently and why. You wonder if what you did/said was effective and did X really understand what you were trying to say/do? You might even consider what you learned from a particular incident.
Thus we want you to not only record but also to reflect - seeking learning."
REFLECTION [in capitals for emphasis] plays an important part in this degree. You may be busy pulling together aspects of a busy day....but STOP...THINK....REFLECT...on those roles and responsibilities.
What impacts on you...who influences you...who do you influence...why is that system used?
-------
What we are trying to achieve in this module is for you to consider your role, strengths and weaknesses as you see it but also from other perspectives too. As an identical twin I am used to looking at my sister and seeing myself...very disconcerting at first because you really see all the negatives as well as the positives! Certain things may well shock you at first..but seeing yourself through someone else's eyes can bring huge strength, just don't take anything personally. See it as an opportunity to move forward because you understand yourself far better than you thought you did.
-------
When looking at a day in your working life you are probably not doing anything you don't normally do.
"When you look back on any given day you don’t just think about what happened you think about its impact, about how you felt. You distill the new experience through past experience!
– you wonder why X said Y and if it was hurtful, informative, a smoke screen etc.? You wonder if you should have done something differently and why. You wonder if what you did/said was effective and did X really understand what you were trying to say/do? You might even consider what you learned from a particular incident.
Thus we want you to not only record but also to reflect - seeking learning."
REFLECTION [in capitals for emphasis] plays an important part in this degree. You may be busy pulling together aspects of a busy day....but STOP...THINK....REFLECT...on those roles and responsibilities.
What impacts on you...who influences you...who do you influence...why is that system used?
-------
Saturday, October 07, 2006
0006
Oh, there are two more things:
1) The feedback I got for my ILP was good. I am glad that Sarah agreed to it, and now it is time to see if I can put it all into place. If not, re-negotiating is at hand.
2) Have a look at my LA1. A Day In My Working Life (by Jessica Kelleher)
1) The feedback I got for my ILP was good. I am glad that Sarah agreed to it, and now it is time to see if I can put it all into place. If not, re-negotiating is at hand.
2) Have a look at my LA1. A Day In My Working Life (by Jessica Kelleher)
0005
Time to catch up here for once. I need to get into a routine of posting here every day or something, but I have been so busy sorting many things out.
My exams are coming up next week and I am seriously freaking out about them. I have so much more work to do and am trying to catch up with everything today. This is scary, because I know I should have done this months ago. I was seriously lazy and took on too much work.
Last week was a spectacular week. I was working all week on holiday courses and they went very well. Tuesday was a holiday (Reunification Day) and I managed to get my first Learning Activity pretty much done. I have been too busy to add the last two bits to it, but I consider it done. And I will get started on LA 2 at the end of next week.
I found the creation of my ILP harder than that of LA1. That is probably because I have had to think about what I want to do for it before I did it. So, having a plan, like the ILP, makes the tasks a lot easier.
I would like to reflect more and write more, but it is time to go to the bakery, get some rolls for breakfast and then revise, revise, revise!
Have a good weekend, everyone!
My exams are coming up next week and I am seriously freaking out about them. I have so much more work to do and am trying to catch up with everything today. This is scary, because I know I should have done this months ago. I was seriously lazy and took on too much work.
Last week was a spectacular week. I was working all week on holiday courses and they went very well. Tuesday was a holiday (Reunification Day) and I managed to get my first Learning Activity pretty much done. I have been too busy to add the last two bits to it, but I consider it done. And I will get started on LA 2 at the end of next week.
I found the creation of my ILP harder than that of LA1. That is probably because I have had to think about what I want to do for it before I did it. So, having a plan, like the ILP, makes the tasks a lot easier.
I would like to reflect more and write more, but it is time to go to the bakery, get some rolls for breakfast and then revise, revise, revise!
Have a good weekend, everyone!
Friday, September 29, 2006
0004
My ILP has been submitted, and now the fear has started to set in that I could have done better. Of course, I can alter it again and again. I will wait until Sarah gets back to me.
Today is going to be a long day at work and I have also just found out that I will be working every Wednesday in October. This has caused a big problem for me, taking into consideration the amount of students I have taken on privately and the exams. But I had originally said that I could come in those days and help out, so now I have to make a new schedule for all of October. The money does come in handy though, because we want to go to London in November for two days to see IAMX (a band I really like) and a lot of friends. So, fingers crossed it all works out.
Today is going to be a long day at work and I have also just found out that I will be working every Wednesday in October. This has caused a big problem for me, taking into consideration the amount of students I have taken on privately and the exams. But I had originally said that I could come in those days and help out, so now I have to make a new schedule for all of October. The money does come in handy though, because we want to go to London in November for two days to see IAMX (a band I really like) and a lot of friends. So, fingers crossed it all works out.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
0003
I have finished, proof-read, double-checked and submitted my ILP. Not that it really needed all that attention, but I'm a perfectionist (in theory).
I feel so glad it is done, and now, looking back at it, it was a good start to the course. I really did take my time with it; I didn't start it right away, but took several steps:
- read it several times
- made notes and 'first-things-that-come-to-mind' lists
- considered it
- talked about it
and then wrote the whole thing up.
I'm pleased with it and we shall see how my LF sees it. I can't wait to get started!
But now it is time to get dressed, do my hair and get to work. I shall study some more for my exams on the train!
I feel so glad it is done, and now, looking back at it, it was a good start to the course. I really did take my time with it; I didn't start it right away, but took several steps:
- read it several times
- made notes and 'first-things-that-come-to-mind' lists
- considered it
- talked about it
and then wrote the whole thing up.
I'm pleased with it and we shall see how my LF sees it. I can't wait to get started!
But now it is time to get dressed, do my hair and get to work. I shall study some more for my exams on the train!
0002
The course has been going for a bit over a week now and I have gotten used to the website, First Class and finally talked to Sarah, my Learning Facilitator yesterday.
A few things still need to be done this week:
- I need to finish the ILP:
I'm having a hard time with it, because I don't really know what it required of me at this stage. I have finished filling in the How I Will Approach This bit, but only in noted. I have no clue if we should just submit it in notes-style (considering Sarah said yesterday that it is mainly for myself and I will find myself changing it and developing it during the Learning Activities), or in full sentences.
Also, I know myself and I always struggle with a concrete plan. I like to leave my options open, but I also need to realize that I can obviously change my ILP regardless of what I submitted.
- I need to send in my Tuition Fee Grant form:
Today I will send it to ARU/Ultralab and then I need to send it on to Student Finance Direct asap. The deadline is Dec. 1st.
I also think that my student account with ARU won't work until they have seen and stamped my form. I hope SFD EU Team is quick to process my application.
- I need to study for my regular exams. Enough said on that in here.
- I need to get a better at time management:
I have realized that I work a little bit too much. I need to learn how to use my time correctly. Over the next few weeks I will mainly focus on my Humboldt University exams, but at least right after those exams I want to designate my days to only one thing. Say, Mondays and Fridays I work at Lernwerk. The mornings can be used for general work and some revision. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays I teach privately. I only want to use the mornings for Ultraversity work when I don't have to go to normal university, which is on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The weekends are reserved for at least one whole day off (which can be spread over two days, I assume).
A few things still need to be done this week:
- I need to finish the ILP:
I'm having a hard time with it, because I don't really know what it required of me at this stage. I have finished filling in the How I Will Approach This bit, but only in noted. I have no clue if we should just submit it in notes-style (considering Sarah said yesterday that it is mainly for myself and I will find myself changing it and developing it during the Learning Activities), or in full sentences.
Also, I know myself and I always struggle with a concrete plan. I like to leave my options open, but I also need to realize that I can obviously change my ILP regardless of what I submitted.
- I need to send in my Tuition Fee Grant form:
Today I will send it to ARU/Ultralab and then I need to send it on to Student Finance Direct asap. The deadline is Dec. 1st.
I also think that my student account with ARU won't work until they have seen and stamped my form. I hope SFD EU Team is quick to process my application.
- I need to study for my regular exams. Enough said on that in here.
- I need to get a better at time management:
I have realized that I work a little bit too much. I need to learn how to use my time correctly. Over the next few weeks I will mainly focus on my Humboldt University exams, but at least right after those exams I want to designate my days to only one thing. Say, Mondays and Fridays I work at Lernwerk. The mornings can be used for general work and some revision. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays I teach privately. I only want to use the mornings for Ultraversity work when I don't have to go to normal university, which is on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The weekends are reserved for at least one whole day off (which can be spread over two days, I assume).
Friday, September 22, 2006
0001
Yesterday I completed my registration with the Ultraversity and I'm now fully enrolled on the BA(Hons) Learning, Technology and Research degree.
I created this blog exclusively for the degree. This will be my opportunity to reflect on my learning, note down ideas and simply let of some steam.
The first thing I had to do was log into the researchers' area and look at the to-do list. So far, this one is easy enough; including the introduction to Firefox and the instruction to download it. Luckily, I'm very aware of the advantages of Firefox and, even though I'm using Safari for my regular net use, I'm happy to use the application.
Secondly, we had to download an application called First Class. After running into inital problems, like not being able to log in, I got it up and running. I love the idea of an interface like this. Not only does it provide you with your own ultraversity mailbox, it's also a great place to meet the people on your own cohert (this is the group of students who start the degree at the same time as you- your fellow researchers) and the entire Ultraversity.
I still need to look into it even more, but so far, First Class is great. I mean, who wouldn't like to travel that way? ;)
--> Reflection: The problem incurred while trying to log in, was solved by (my non-existent) patience. It appears you need to get an e-mail from the Learning Facilitator (or, your personal tutor) before you can log in.
I decided to wait a while after getting the annoying error message that my username and/or password is wrong- and it helped. When I got home from work, my LF Sarah had emailed me and I could log in without any problems.
--> Anything else I learned from this? Apart from learning a new programme/application: Not really. I'm fairly good with my computer and knew what I was doing (downloading, setting up the server).
My next steps are going to be:
- Talking to my LF Sarah on the phone. Maybe today, maybe on Monday. I emailed her times I will be available.
- Working on my Individual Learning Plan (ILP). I have had a good look at it already, now it is time to 'add my flavour'.
I created this blog exclusively for the degree. This will be my opportunity to reflect on my learning, note down ideas and simply let of some steam.
The first thing I had to do was log into the researchers' area and look at the to-do list. So far, this one is easy enough; including the introduction to Firefox and the instruction to download it. Luckily, I'm very aware of the advantages of Firefox and, even though I'm using Safari for my regular net use, I'm happy to use the application.
Secondly, we had to download an application called First Class. After running into inital problems, like not being able to log in, I got it up and running. I love the idea of an interface like this. Not only does it provide you with your own ultraversity mailbox, it's also a great place to meet the people on your own cohert (this is the group of students who start the degree at the same time as you- your fellow researchers) and the entire Ultraversity.
I still need to look into it even more, but so far, First Class is great. I mean, who wouldn't like to travel that way? ;)
--> Reflection: The problem incurred while trying to log in, was solved by (my non-existent) patience. It appears you need to get an e-mail from the Learning Facilitator (or, your personal tutor) before you can log in.
I decided to wait a while after getting the annoying error message that my username and/or password is wrong- and it helped. When I got home from work, my LF Sarah had emailed me and I could log in without any problems.
--> Anything else I learned from this? Apart from learning a new programme/application: Not really. I'm fairly good with my computer and knew what I was doing (downloading, setting up the server).
My next steps are going to be:
- Talking to my LF Sarah on the phone. Maybe today, maybe on Monday. I emailed her times I will be available.
- Working on my Individual Learning Plan (ILP). I have had a good look at it already, now it is time to 'add my flavour'.
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