Terry Anderson in, Theory and Practice of Online Learning, Chapter 14 Teaching In An Online Learning Context, pointed out that in our goal to create teacher presence there is an urge to go online regularly, however it is important to remember that, “… creating teacher presence is a challenging and rewarding task, but should not be a life consuming one.” Further stated is, “… the virtual teacher has to lead a real life” (p. 356). This is something I have to work on as a virtual teacher.
My family will tell you they wish I would spend less time online, especially in relation to the time spent marking and responding to work related emails. Using an LMS allows students to submit work 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, so when I come back from all holidays there is always work to be marked. I have heard of some school districts blocking access to the LMS during Christmas and Easter holidays, and then during the summer the school is open so teachers can work or they hire teachers to cover the courses. I would not want our district to block access during the holidays, as part of the flexibility of online learning is students being able to work on the courses when it best meets their needs. The idea of another teacher taking over my course for a month or two is not one I would wish for. But keeping on top of my marking and emails can be a challenge and at times overwhelming. This can lead to burn-out. This why it is important to take time for myself, especially during the holidays.
I have these past few days enjoyed the opportunity to go off line and spend time with family. Modelling what I preach as a PE teacher, that regular participation in physical activity is important for overall physical and mental well-being. I have gone for long walks, and played tennis, speedminton (think badminton with a tennis racket) and a couple rounds of mini golf.
I know that I will have to focus on work soon enough, but at the present I am enjoying this opportunity to rejuvenate. I hope you have or will have this opportunity during your break.
Jane J.
Reference
Anderson, Terry. Theory and Practice of Online Learning. Chapter 14, Teaching In An Online Learning
Context. Retrieved from: http://www.aupress.ca/index.php/books/120146
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