Thing 1: Lifelong Learning

Ok, here I go.......

The MAT program at APSU has instilled in me a love of learning.  Of course I have learned before, in high school and college, but I didn't love it.  I didn't really even like it at times.  I learned to please, to earn a grade, and to get out!  I used to cringe when I heard people say how they would be a student forever if they could.  But now, I think I am becoming that person.  I am unofficially auditing two biology classes for my own personal knowledge this semester.  Yes, I am that weirdo, but I love it, and I don't care!  My ultimate desire for teaching is to instill this love of learning to my students. 

So, what habit do I think will be the easiest for successful lifelong learning?  For me it is accepting responsibility for my own learning.  At 39 and 3/4's years, I know that no one
can learn information for me.  If I want to learn something, it is up to me.  As one of my professor's says, "Winners want the ball."  I plan on having that on a poster in my classroom.

The hardest habit of lifelong learning will be viewing problems as challenges.  I sometimes get discouraged/frustrated with technology, but I have to realize that I can't be scared of it.  I guess I am scared of looking foolish in front of my peers for not knowing how to do something when it seems everyone else knows how to do it.  I need to channel this thought when I assist struggling learners.  I know just how they feel. 

However, I am really excited about this class.  I NEED the technology skills,  I WANT the technology skills, and I look forward to the day when I can show my 14 year old something HE doesn't know how to do on the computer!  Peace out, Leslie