Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Week 2

Discussion re what we need to think about/record when reading academic literature. We were given a template with questions to consider for each area. Not online with CECIL as yet but information will be accessible re sessions once login organised.
Eunice Price came in to speak to us about her dissertation and article she had published. She was lovely and open about the challenges and demands of postgraduate study, and encouraging to pursue
We talked about ideas for postgraduate research - looking at overlaps of research - where people haven't done particular research - can bring research areas together.
Possible option to cover Masters: 2 papers plus 60 point dissertation (20,000 words)
Challenge of publishing article - reducing word count without losing meaning. Important to know your audience, ensure structure/content suitable for writing style.
Start with lots of ideas and then fine down/condense - likened to a funnel
To look at a subject as if looking through a lens - see the familiar as unfamiliar - look more closely, discovery/questioning
When submitting drafts, feedback will identify ways of refining information - will generally need to resubmit many times before complete/accepted - important to see/view as constructive feedback, a part of postgraduate learning and study, and not as a negative.

Have made notes on 2nd article given for reading: 
Spiller, L. (2012). How can we teach them when they won't listen?. How teacher beliefs about Pasifika values and Pasifika ways of learning affect student behaviour and achievement.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Up Grade: Skills for postgraduate study

Last week - initial intro to what the course is about - aim to prepare for postgraduate study. Have been wanting to upskill and get my 'teeth' into something. To feel confident/gain skills in critical reading and evaluation, and academic writing to support me into postgraduate studies pathway.
We had a great overview and open discussion - wonderfully welcoming and supportive! Great start!
Have been given a piece of reading by Eunice Price.
Task - to read the article, and then try referencing it. Also to commence learning reflection.

I am originally from the UK, arriving in NZ in 1990 to the role as Principal of a PTE. I gained my adult teaching qualifications, and have been working in an educational role ever since. I am currently employed at Manukau Institute of Technology.  I am particularly interested in the blended learning environment, and in 2008 became involved in the DIL (Digital Literacy Project) at MIT. The project lead me to the exciting discovery, use and development of various online media. A few years later I enrolled on the Graduate Certificate in Applied eLearning. I found this challenging and thought provoking, including areas such as critical analysis, critical reading and referencing.
I view Professional development in both educational and professional discipline important to my role and being. Although last year I had planned to commence the Up Grade course, I completed NCALE.
I feel ready to commence my postgraduate pathway and having enrolled on the Up Grade course I look forward to being guided towards improved ways of viewing learning, discovering how, to be more confident in putting my ideas forward and being better prepared to start my journey.

I have two wonderful, independant children -  21 year old son who is working/travelling overseas, and 18 year old daughter who is in her first year at the University of Auckland, and a partner who believes in me.