So Boise State University was crazy enough to accept me into the inaugural cohort of their new Ed.D. in Educational Technology program. Actually my wife, Molly, and I were both accepted and we are excited about the adventures in store for us. The program is 100% online. And it offers some very interesting courses, including: Graphic Design for Learning, Online Course Design, Teaching and Learning in Virtual Worlds, YouTube for Educators, International Issues in ICT, etc...
Why am I doing this? Three main reasons come to mind when I am asked that question (it's usually me asking myself). First, this is a great chance for some personal enrichment. I am really looking forward to doing some deep learning in a field that is important to me. And I am also looking forward to looking back on all this with great satisfaction in completing the journey. Second, this program will support my current professional work. I anticipate being able to take things that I learn through BSU and translate them into the projects that my colleagues and I work on. And third, I am hoping that when I retire, having this degree will help open some doors for things I would like to do after my current career ends.
All of this sounds exciting. And it is. I am excited. However, I am also gripped by fear. I know that when this program starts on August 27th my life will change. Chaos will be introduced into the life that Molly and I have tried to make (somewhat) orderly. I am expecting the workload to be tremendous and relentless. As I reflect on the fear that I am feeling, I think that it has a lot to do with not knowing exactly how I am going to find the time to get everything done. My feelings are strong about needing to continue to do high quality work in my job and to keep that same standard in this Ed.D. program. Fortunately, my family, friends, and colleagues are very supportive. So I need to build upon that to overcome this fear.
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