Philip Thomas

Employment/ Place of Work:

Transco BG

Country of Residence:

UK

How I fit the course work into my life

My role in learning and development in BG Transco requires me to be away from home and to travel extensively within the UK. Therefore, all of my study time had to be fitted into evenings / weekends. At times this caused me headaches trying to balance home, work and the MA. I often found myself driving and reflecting on the course and planning assignments.

My most cherished interaction on the programme:

I often felt a ‘buzz’ when the level of group interaction was particularly high. These interactions also caused the most frustrations if I was unable to access the BBS for a couple of days and things had moved on in my absence.

Which of the different course models suited me best?

The level of collaboration in H802 and H804 suited me most for two reasons. Firstly, these courses suited my preferred learning style and secondly I wanted to observe the online collaborative course model in action.



Answers to the Vice Chancellor's questions:

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

I am currently piloting an online collaborative ‘introduction to management’ learning programme. This is targeted at recently appointed supervisory staff. The pilot has encountered a number of problems but the feedback is positive and already a second workshop has been requested. I am also planning a workshop to develop training staff.

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

The opportunity for student-student collaboration has to be, for me, the most stimulating part of the programme and the greatest opportunity to develop distance learning.

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

The value is hard to measure. It was a positive and fascinating experience to be part of such a diverse group with common interests.

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

No, the programme was never impersonal or isolating, although the personal relationship with students and tutors varied considerably, as with any ‘traditional’ interaction. Maybe smaller tutor groups would make the programme even less impersonal.

Did I find this relevant to my work:

The programme did not relate to my work at the start. However, my personal learning and development has been immense. It is this learning that is helping me to bring about relevant change in BG Transco and therefore my day-to-day work role.

Has it changed my life in any way:

The completion of this MA has given me a new understanding of both the learning process and the technology. These ‘tools’ have helped me to manage new initiatives and to consider my own career prospects. Many more opportunities seem to be opening up to me. Will I still be working for BG Transco in 2 years time?