In class this week, we discussed the positive and negative outlooks on learning online. To begin, I want to say that I thoroughly enjoyed discussing this in class. Since classes have been online this year, learning has looked a little different. Each class has been lectured via zoom, which can be rather difficult for some classes. Instead of being able to meet your professors, peers and engage in real life experience learning, it has all been communicated through our computer screens. Although it has been quite the adjustment, I believe that online learning has been a smooth transition to deal with our current times. I appreciated discussing this topic because we were able to hear our classmates thoughts on this matter, discuss how it has been more helpful and also discuss how it has negatively impacted our learning.

Personally, I originally found online learning very difficult. I have always been one to ask questions during lectures and learned better through personal interaction in face to face learning. However, now that we are almost wrapping up our second semester, I can confidently say that it eventually got better. Professors have been very engaging and helpful during these times to ensure that all students are aware of deadlines, course material and have given us extra time in class to complete our assignments. It has also shown all of us how important technology is and how to properly execute lesson plans through different online platforms in order to teach desired outcomes. I found that it was beneficial to create a plan for myself when it came to being in class and completing homework, so I was not left staring at a screen for hours. This allowed me to distribute my time sitting in front of my computer and while doing homework accordingly. It can be straining on the eyes to stare at a screen all day, which is why creating a plan felt needed.

With the enlightening news that classes will be in person in September, I am sure that everyone is relieved and excited to get back into our learning norms. I believe that this year taught us all patience, acceptance and understanding when it came to learning online, and is definitely an experience that we will not forget. See you all in September!