3.5 Assignment-Critical Reflection Journal-Blog

What is new to my thinking or learning this past week? 

             This week we explored the topics of Needs Assessment, Task Analysis, and Learner Analysis.  In simpler terms, we know what the learner needs to know and why.  We need to know the tasks necessary to accomplish what the learner needs to know, and we want the learner to analyze their learning.  Honestly, I had done things before but didn’t use the technical terms.  As learners, I believe it is essential to understand all three items to enhance the learning process and develop compelling content that benefits the learner. 

How has this new information challenged me?

             The new information I have learned this week puts a name to concepts that I probably already knew but never realized that is what they were.  I have been challenged this week to explore new aspects of the learning process to understand better how learning happens to facilitate courses better,  the information this week has given me unique insight into the instructional design process and what goes into the final product of an online course.  Having this knowledge and insight will help develop enriching course content and better understand the student and how they learn best. 

How has this stretched my professional growth and development?  What are the implications of this week’s learning on my professional practice?

             Understanding the content in this week’s workshop will help me grow as an educational practitioner adding new tools and resources to my toolbelt.  I believe to be an effective facilitator/educator; you must understand the learning process and how to best meet the needs of your students. Gaining new knowledge will not only help me better serve the students, but it will also make me more marketable in the education profession.  To grow and develop as a practitioner, I must continue to hone my skills and abilities, including gaining new knowledge.

How can these new learnings be used to impact my personal faith journey and my impact for the Kingdom?

             The knowledge gained this week can also help me along my faith journey but understanding what new believers want and need to know about the Bible and their Christian walk.  I believe the concepts learned this week are transferable to other settings, such as disciplining new believers.  By applying the knowledge learned this week, I’ll be better prepared no matter my setting.