I have been an online student for a few days now. I was telling my husband last night how much I was enjoying the idea of learning something outside of my content area, and it is true. But I'm also reminded of the time commitment that an online class is going to be. So far, I am really appreciating the fact that I can log in for an hour here, and an hour there, to get things done; that I don't have to come online and do all the first module in one shot. I get frustrated, though, with the feeling alone. I don't have someone sitting on a computer near by that I can learn over and whisper a quick question to. I am lucky that there are multiple teachers participating that I know, so I can always connect with them if I get really stuck, but it's not the same as having a physical being beside me. At the same time, though, working alone forces me to figure things out on my own. In the long run, that gives me a stronger sense of satisfaction.
I can see how the layout would work for just about any high school subject matter. All the materials are there for students to use when it works best for them. I just wish there was an online chat options, like virtual office hours. That would be handy. If I were to teach a similar class, I would like to find a way to say that from this hour to this hour three days a week I will be available for live chat. I wonder if there is way to make that actually happen...
I really enjoyed making a Prezi earlier this week! Here it is if you would like to see it: http://prezi.com/yalxa8ajx5i2/the-great-gatsby/
That has been my highlight so far. I can't wait to use it when I teach American Literature in the fall.
