We spoke about so many things this morning with a cross-over between modules 1 and 2, it's amazing how much was covered in just over an hour. One of the topics raised was about the actual learning process and getting to grips with everything in Module 1. Jamie pointed out that it's important to accept and appreciate ones' personal learning style and not to worry if this is different to others. In tandem with this, it's also important to accept and appreciate ones' fears and potential blocks to learning. Myself being a perfect example of this as I write my first blog of module 2 and try to understand the content and expectations of the handbook. When I don't quite get to grips with something, I seem to mentally clam up and can think of nothing other than the mind gremlin that tells me I can't or won't be able to do it. This then blocks any form of thought process and prevents me from moving on. To any new Module 1, who may be feeling the same trepidation, I discovered that my reflective journal became a sanctuary for off-loading negative thoughts and blockages. Taking time out to record, process and break down what I actually needed to do in order to move on, provided an element of calm to my apprehension. Just as Mary said that the books are steadily becoming friends, they also help in providing clarity and promote more positive and productive 'thinking and doing'. I appreciate that reflective journals don't necessarily work for everyone, but in addition to balancing reading and completing each task, I found that recording all the highs and lows of the journey was invaluable to my personal development and summary of each event. I have no doubt that I will be doing a lot of reflective writing as I embark on module 2. I also find the blogs really helpful, and I would like to improve my own commitment to this by writing more regularly.
Books that I found to be helpful during module 1 were:
- The Work-Based Learning Student Handbook by Ruth Helyer
- The Study Skills Handbook by Stella Cottrell
- A Handbook of Reflective and Experiential Learning, Theory and Practice by Jennifer A Moon.
Before I sign out of this blog, I would like to point you to Jamie's blog (he beat me to it), he has recorded essential information that was discussed earlier today which is extremely helpful and encouraging. Thanks Jamie.
Question? does anyone know how we can set an email alert for each persons new published blog and/or comment?
Great Blog Amanda. Yes Ruth Helyer book... I first began with that one and the Durrant book I also felt this was a more concise and easy to read.
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Mary
Great, thanks for sharing through this blog Amanda. Good to recognise your outlets, what works for you. Glad you're finding the reflective journal and blogs a good tool. I will look re-the email alert for blogs. I don't have mine on, I prefer to have a morning where I set aside time to do a general check-in each week...just a way that works for me anyway. Speak shortly.
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