I find it ironic that this blog post about technology needs to be written for me. I had planned on posting a video but I am having trouble getting my camera to work. Technology is one of those words that imply it will make everything easier, yet it is so frustrating.
For me online learning is very beneficial. Being that I am a firefighter I don't have a traditional work schedule. I work 48 hour shifts with 96 hour off time, so being able to work at my own pace has been very beneficial. In fact, all of my general ed. classes have been online, with one exception. By doing it online I have been able to not have to take anytime off work to go to class, saved money in fuel costs and saved travelling time. It has also allowed me the opportunity to review and comment on other students work. It has been beneficial to me to see that their work reflected that they have had the same struggles as me. A big downside to online class has been getting distracted while working on the computer. With things like Facebook, on line gaming, you tube and etc. it is very easy to find that what should have taken an hour to do chewed up 4 hours of my time. Another downside was not being able to meet new friends in person and not seeing the instructor in the class room setting.
All in all this class has been a good experience for me. I believe that I will continue to use my blog to express myself creatively. With the completion of this semester I will have completed my AAS in Paramedicine. I don't know whats next for me. Original goal was to transfer to NAU and get my BA in Fire Science Management, but now I don't know. A BA in the fire service is really only needed for Fire Chiefs and some federal jobs. Truth is I would never even consider being a Chief, the politics are horrendous and in the current climate they are only two year jobs. As far as federal employment, again it's politics. I like my job, I enjoy providing care to the sick and injured, so I can't imagine not doing so. Besides, I have been a partime student, full time employee, full time daddy and husband for the last 3 years ( longer with out the school) and I am burned out on being so busy. I think I will take next semester off and concentrate an my faith, family and friends.
