A500.9.4.RB_MedleyKim In Just Nine Weeks

     As I take a deep breath and look back, the past nine weeks have been a wonderful journey on my path to my Masters of Science degree. In looking at the titles of future courses, I can see why a solid foundation either needs to be formed or strengthened before taking the plunge. The primary value of this course, for me, is the opportunity for reflection. It has been a consistent theme throughout the duration. Whether the assignment was to review and discuss, or research and present, the element of reflection remained as a constant; and, that will be a key element for not only the next few years; but, for continued success beyond the online world of Embry Riddle.

     Positive experiences far outnumber any negatives. The few areas of frustration I experienced were those from the introduction of new technologies. Quite honestly, my OCD plays a huge part with my aggravations. You see, sometimes I do not allow myself the luxury of patience. I easily become disappointed when I cannot master a new program within some arbitrary time frame I have established. This course gave me the chance to take a deeper look inside and I now realize I have been allowing many of those vices to creep in and not only hinder my own curiosity; they have often challenged my courage and resolve to master a new skill. Prior to this course, I had not heard of “The Brain” or “Camtasia”. Perhaps an earlier introduction of the presentation resources, with a few practice lessons, would help alleviate future frustrations. Nonetheless, I persevered and was able to produce a presentation for "Admission & Acceptance Through Curiosity & Courage". Did I mention, Google Drive, yet an additional source for new learning, saved my life and my project submission? That’s a topic for another discussion. Another area of questioning came with proper APA citations. The only way to correct this is to have it not only introduced by the English department of undergraduate schools; but, to have consistency with grading the formatting. Again, that’s the OCD in me. I simply do not like losing points due to technicalities.

  

     My favorite assignments are those that involve writing. For many years, I was always instructed to write in third person fashion. It is not easy to break this habit; however, I enjoy writing from a personal perspective, especially when asked to apply a concept. It provides me with a chance to create a visual image with words in an effort to support my ideas and concepts. I enjoyed the video presentations, too; and, was completely fascinated with the TED video from week eight. Statistics bore me to tears; but, Mr. Rosling’s historical tales and animated charts actually made dots and data come to life. I can only hope to be able to capture and hold an audience’s attention as he did.

     Looking ahead, I am going to slow the swirl a bit more and exercise more patience with myself so as to possibly avoid, or at least overcome those feelings of disappointment and fatigue when faced with a seemingly daunting challenge. I think I am making progress as just this week; I was able to re-take a test that led me to question intellectual curiosity and courage. I am happy to say my test scores increased; and, for a self-recognized grade weenie, that’s an excellent measure for the overall success and experience gained from this course.