Lyn Oates

Employment/ Place of Work:

Cheltenham and Gloucester College of HE

Country of Residence:

England

How I fit the course work into my life

Any study while working full-time requires skill in juggling the often conflicting demands of home/work/family etc. Most of my work was done around the kitchen table with compliant cats and tolerant husband, but being on line the course was also there in my office, during lunch times or to dip into when I had time available. The final year was particularly difficult due to both family and personal illness, then it was only the on-line flexibility and tutor encouragement that enabled me to complete the course. It would not have been possible with a campus based course.

My most cherished interaction on the programme:

All of H802, the support of working jointly with other students and also the support from tutors, (including the postcards - Thank you Gill).

Which of the different course models suited me best?

H802 was undoubtedly the most enjoyable, although in many ways also the most difficult, due to sheer volume of communication and information! H804 probably enabled me to study most in depth and do my best work, as the project permitted concentration on one theme for a longer period of time. H801 was the most traditional and probably as a result seemed the easiest? but I guess I enjoyed it all....



Answers to the Vice Chancellor's questions:

In what ways am I putting into practice the ideas and understandings I developed on the programme:

In my role as Head of Learning and Teaching Development the insights about open and distance education that I have gained directly influence my work practice and I am always using H802 as an example of how different approaches can be achieved.

What did I find the most stimulating part of the programme:

In retrospect H802 will be the lasting memory - for the range of approaches and the opportunity to work collaboratively...although at the time it seemed hard going...

What value was the global nature of the programme to me:

I really enjoyed the opportunity to work with others from different countries, cultures and educational systems...each with unique experience to share.

Did I find it isolating or impersonal to study this programme?

Not at all. In fact it is surprising how 'personalities' develop on-line....not to mention a few characters as well....

Did I find this relevant to my work:

Very much so - but that is why I chose this course, to support my continuing professional development, in the first place.

Has it changed my life in any way:

I believe education always promotes change....and I think I have changed over the last year. The course must have been one of the contributing factors....