This is where I discovered my other passion. I enjoy explaining these details to other people. I have found this to be a very powerful skill, especially in the field of computers, where too often ideas are expressed in technical concepts and jargon. Most neophyte users are turned off by the extra complexity. I have always tried to explain technical concepts in very non-technical terms, especially by using analogies or stories that explain the concept. I have used this to teach Microsoft classes, and post secondary classes at St. Louis University.
Although I am currently a Network Manager, we still need to explain computer system to our clients, in this case, insurance agents who sell our insurance. These agents need to learn how to use our software to issue insurance quotes, sell policies, and process claims. We currently bring these people out to our headquarters to train them, which is a big time commitment. I hope to start using this course material to provide these courses remotely and save time. Over time I believe that these kinds of classes will mostly replace the in person classes that we currently provide.
Longer term I would like to apply these concepts in a more traditional education environment, possibly by developing curriculum for a university or technical school. In particular I think online learning would be a great way to teach about technology. Here too I see the future having more remote learners, so online education will be a critical instructional tool.
To be a person who is good at their job, there is always a level of communication that is needed. As a network manager I am sure you have to answer questions daily about why someone can or can not print to a certain printer or why they aren't able to remotely access a certain file when they are on an unsecured network. This is in essence teaching. I had never expected to be a teacher in the traditional sense. I have loved learning and helping others learn my whole life. You, while imparting your knowledge to others to either help solve their problems or try to explain why they should not tunnel through a firewall, are helping expand their knowledge base. Teaching is not found exclusively in the classroom. I have to admit that most of the learning I have done has not been in the traditional classroom setting even though I have valued my experiences there. I hope you are able to pursue your bliss wherever it might lead you.
ReplyDeleteAs a former member of your last group, I can tell you that you have amazing communication skills. You were able to help me when my web-cam was not working properly. Also as a team we were able to communicate and work together very effectively. I read that you hope to expand your skills and work for a university writing curriculum. I know that you would be a wonderful person to do this. Also, I will need people like you now and in the future. As I go through this program, I have never have explored a computer beyond using it for work or personal use, I do have lots of questions and tend to ask people I know to help me.
ReplyDeleteI think it is interesting that you "feel like a fish out of water" when the course content comes so naturally to you! A major part of being an effective teacher is knowing & owning your subject content so that you can teach it with the confidence of knowing that you are an expert and are leading your students in the right direction. Your background as an IT professional, your passion for helping people understand and your knack for making it seem less intimidating to those just learning about computers will all help you to reach your goals.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that education, especially higher ed related to technology, is heading more toward distance /remote learning. I am just curious: Would you prefer to work with your students live and in person, or do you feel teaching can be equally as effective online?
A network manager who can explain how things work, or in some cases don't work, is a rare person indeed. Your employer is lucky to have you around.
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