tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15043585396468250882012-01-27T06:31:50.314-06:00This blog was created to reflect upon my journey through graduate school. Comments are always welcome.Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.comBlogger701100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-64923750032157522512010-04-02T20:23:00.000-05:002010-04-02T20:23:59.306-05:00

I believe a week went past after writing the last post (the one on wanting to get a dog) and having my wishes answered. As P and I were running on the trail in Fayetteville, a little puppy appeared a bit alone. He was left at a grassy area in the back of an apartment building that bordered the trail. We went around the building seeing if anyone just missed him but a couple in the building

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-68423550769212949572010-03-06T15:07:00.001-06:002010-03-06T15:07:09.641-06:00

  Lately, as I got my allergies in check, I have been thinking about getting a dog. I think everybody in grad school deserves to get a dog. I believe that we often get too caught up with writing and studying and researching and teaching that we forget about movement and the outdoors. Dogs can make you more aware of what is valuable in life. Like going out for a walk, taking a stroll into town

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-85922957407932944912009-11-17T07:32:00.002-06:002009-11-17T07:42:28.634-06:00

Week 5 in badminton consisted of: Tuesday: Smash and DriveThursday: Doubles StrategiesDuring the Tuesday class I had the students work on reaction speed and they really seem to enjoy that. On Thursday I did partner activities during the warm-up to get them started before their double play. Concepts such as teamwork, trust and communication were addressed. I let the students play as much as

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-24855323240361574452009-11-09T22:13:00.006-06:002009-11-09T22:22:22.579-06:00

Ok, here is my chapter 2:Right now, after 35 hours of writing I am stopping. I am handing it in and pick it up again in the Spring. I am officially brain dead! Ok, no I did not hand in all the pieces of papers of notes, no I actually did write it in a paper ;) But those pieces on the floor is what started it all! Organization is key... then... I locked myself in for a few days and did not come

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-60472895944877192602009-11-09T21:27:00.002-06:002009-11-09T21:58:51.595-06:00

It has been quite a week as far as homework and keeping up with writing my chapter 2 of my dissertation but now I take a break and reflect on the badminton course. We are now 1/2 way done and the students received their first progress report. I checked it and checked it and think it was a very fair way of grading. Here was the scale I used:1) Personal/Social Management: /3 (they give this grade

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-1140477680257884422009-10-30T08:11:00.003-05:002009-10-30T08:58:22.964-05:00

'Time goes by fast and as we now starting to learn how to "play" the game of badminton, it seems we just started. Using the sport education model does have a learning curve or two. First, as the instructor I am new to this unit so as I try it out I learn what works and what does it but try not to do it to the expense of the students even though it will affect them in a way. Second, the students

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-16178040914969224982009-10-26T19:04:00.002-05:002009-10-26T19:59:25.636-05:00

Day three was all about the team. I started the lesson by allowing them to play a bit until all students were there. Once it was time to begin, I organized the group of students into their teams. Each class holds 4 teams with 4 to 5 students in each team. Each team has a coach, manager, fitness trainer, official and player. The player will take on the job of students who are absent if that

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-57501273297088614552009-10-20T23:09:00.002-05:002009-10-20T23:37:20.895-05:00

Today was Day two in my badminton classes. As always, the students in 8 AM class looked exhausted. Usually there is a turn over happening in the first week where I still receive many new students that as a result won't know anything about the syllabus so I end up spending some time with these students. I always try to design my class in such a way that it is ok for me to do so.Here is how the

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-25962474494634136992009-10-15T22:43:00.004-05:002009-10-16T00:13:45.857-05:00

Cover of Sport Education SeasonsWell, there you have it. Day 1 has passed.Besides having the past days being chaotic as far as catching up with papers and exams after going to the PETE conference, I would say bravely to have chosen the task to experience with a new teaching model. The Sport Education Model is brand new to me. In fact, even though I had heard about it, the first articles, research

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-5918219898787874392009-10-15T22:00:00.003-05:002009-10-15T22:18:25.575-05:00

Zi8 vs Zi6 Kodak Video CameraAfter just mentioning to people that the zi6 Kodak digital video camera is the best video camera for PE teachers to use to observe their pre-service teachers I found out a new version just came out!It is the zi8!A few informational videos on comparing the zi6 and zi8 resolution:1) Going to Germany! These guys are funny.2) Wired: videos and other information.zi8:-

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-2180397203882264222009-10-07T14:47:00.004-05:002009-10-07T14:58:31.587-05:00

I am here at the PETE conference and some people were asking about the camera I use.Just a quick note as I keep forgetting the type of camera I use in PE and I think it is awesome.Using the Kodak zi6, I can tape all my students and they can look at their teaching session right away. I can also directly upload the video's into Youtube, Ning, wikis or other sources.These camera's are great because

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-46535811402478939242009-09-09T00:10:00.003-05:002009-09-09T00:23:11.973-05:00

I was in fear of this moment but knew it would come at a rather bad time. Just ran like 28 miles or so on Saturday and knew fit test #2 was suppose to be that day. Decided to give my body some rest before hitting it hard. Anyway, after running 28 last Saturday (which was hard by the way but I knew it was going to be hard as it was my longest run since July), riding bike 20 miles on Sunday and

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-55163369303967964672009-09-02T12:32:00.002-05:002009-09-02T13:51:24.748-05:00

Writing a dissertation title is not an easy task but I am taking a leap and trying it out!Task 1 in writing my first three chapters of my dissertation was to create a title. In writing a title, one should have your variables and the people involved mentioned in the title.First some background: I want to find out what types of technologies Physical Education Teacher Educators use within the PETE

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-43186486022226671422009-08-22T14:55:00.004-05:002009-08-22T15:06:19.468-05:00

When I arrived from work yesterday I noticed a package from Germany and knew my first book had arrived! Even if it is a publication of my thesis, it is still a book! So I can be proud to have it in my hands. Here is what it looks like:It includes 141 pages double sided and it is imply, my Masters Thesis. The title of the book is: "Exploring New Technologies in Physical Education Teacher Education

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-82828380095971326982009-08-22T13:12:00.008-05:002009-08-22T14:41:45.175-05:00

After a short holiday, we are back at work! I had a lot of fun visiting my family in Belgium. It was a wonderful trip! Even though I had planned to do city trips, drink beer and eat chocolate, I still needed to be active throughout so I ran, lifted weights (hihi) and biked just as these pictures attest. Even though I stayed fairly active, I did gain a few pounds for living the **good** life :)

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-29610303279524619362009-07-25T18:06:00.005-05:002009-07-25T22:48:20.501-05:00

Starting my dissertation planning! The Notebook!After one year of probing and searching of how to formulate my thoughts on my dissertation research project, I have made the plunge! On this day, July 25th, I bought my official "dissertation notebook" from Barnes and Nobles. I went there to buy a book to read on the plane to Belgium but came back with THE notebook.I think it is quite appropriate as

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-68275891551173246592009-07-21T12:29:00.005-05:002009-07-21T13:20:14.829-05:00

The Midnight 50K run began at 8 pm at Lake Sylvia, about 40 minutes from Little Rock. The entire run is on forest roads. There were 2 full equipped aid stations, one at 7.5 miles and one at the turn around at 15.5 miles. It had been so hot lately but news came that it would be a cool run so that made me very happy!I went to the race with the intent to run the 25K even though I wanted to run the

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-32637320526855953682009-05-06T19:41:00.003-05:002009-05-06T20:54:20.400-05:00

Well, here it is. One year later. To sum up my first year as a PhD student I quote:"I have never been this connected and disconnected at the same time!"I have many reasons for saying this but let's start with the positives:By emerging myself in the world of web 2.0 tools and free Internet Social Media Networks, I have met people from all over the world with interests that are all over the map.

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-65927896683524544722009-04-19T21:50:00.014-05:002009-04-19T23:07:49.087-05:00

Ultra Running! My first 50KAfter one year of training and failing to train, my year goal finally arrived! Running the OT 50K!Let me provide a little history. Ever since I was younger, about 16, I wanted to learn a new physical activity every year and so I did: scuba diving, dance, archery, down hills ski racing and last year I got a little taste of cycling and trail running. I never liked running

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-26331352628087650062009-04-05T21:13:00.008-05:002009-04-05T22:12:45.055-05:00

The AAHPERD National Conference 2009 was held in Tampa Bay, Florida this year. Before I went to the conference I had a few specific goals set:1) Meet people in the area of PE Technology2) Take the sessions that included technology3) Receive feedback on my research and dissertation ideas4) Excite other educators about the uses of wikis in Physical EducationHow successful was I at meeting these

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-47487839433601331512009-03-03T21:07:00.003-06:002009-03-03T21:23:30.812-06:00

For the first time since I started my Doctorate program I was able to save up some money and to buy HEALTHY foods! I usually buy more processed foods as they are less expensive. I also buy and eat way too many carb products for that same reason. Bread, cereal is cheap!So, this time I have a plan. I created my grocerie list which included many fruits (grapefruit, blueberries, bananas, apples and

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-40742649633015640442009-03-01T22:23:00.001-06:002009-03-01T22:25:06.192-06:00

Second article review for my supervision class:In the article “Systematic observation training for pre-service Physical Education teachers”, Behets (1993) stated that observation is a critical skill in effective teaching Physical Education (PE). Several other researchers advocate for the use of observation training as part of the PE teacher education programs (Bressan & Weiss, 1982; Metzler, 1986

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-29538959488464961512009-02-10T21:53:00.005-06:002009-02-10T22:11:05.699-06:00

An ambitious proposal? This was the first poster I ever made and in the end I was pretty proud of it. I did not create it like a normal poster just because it wasn't me when I did it according to the "norm" and I had fun making it more interactive. Anyway, I wanted to see whether our PETE program reflected the needs of the students we teach. Are we teaching future PE teachers to become successful

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-35792010589626071432009-02-01T16:54:00.005-06:002009-02-01T16:58:11.966-06:00

This is my first draft, written in a room next to a fitness room booming with music. Must review tomorrow! :)In the article "Maintaining Connections: A Web-enhanced Approach to Undergraduate Internship Supervision", Bulger (2006) explains that a senior year in Kinesiology is a critical period to assist students in a smooth transition from being a student to being a professional. This critical

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-80086915399427126392009-01-13T21:30:00.004-06:002009-01-13T21:52:20.278-06:00

Schools kill creativity I have been curious about creativity, using creativity in teaching. That is also the reason why I decided to take this doctoral level course in "effective strategies for college teaching". In this video, Sir Ted Robinson explains how the education system, in it's full hierarchy is killing the creativity of the students. He further illustrates this point by sharing a story

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-44838225833341920762009-01-11T14:46:00.009-06:002009-01-11T22:15:22.163-06:00

I love Physical Education and everything that goes with it. And I believe that the Web 2.0 goes with it! In fact, I think we can enhance the physical education environment if we connect it to the web through a various number of ways. Lately I have been thinking about how I can verbalize my area of research and how I want to specialize within PE as I go through my doctorate and begin multiple

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-18332770265300623252009-01-08T21:42:00.005-06:002009-01-08T22:01:19.740-06:00

I don't know what it is but I am excited about something! I think that my fitness program (Chalean Extreme) has a positive influence on my mood. I have been doing Chalean for almost 2 weeks now and I feel great. I also feel as if I am stronger and happier! I get things done now.The other reason is probably because I am starting the new semester and have had contact with several people through

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-78327371382933948072009-01-08T17:52:00.004-06:002009-01-08T18:09:30.675-06:00

The challenge I brought to myself! I am teaching my fitness concepts class in an active way and would like to know if my classes can encourage students to be fit, to keep a fitness plan going for 8 weeks and to enhance their fitness. At the same time, I do lecture about fitness during the active sessions, plus the students are required to read the chapters and do quizzes on them so I want to see

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-19395854259935265972009-01-07T19:07:00.004-06:002009-01-07T19:30:02.660-06:00

As I begin the new semester, I am trying to make the courses I teach easy on me but here is the problem, I really want my students to learn something so I do end up putting a lot of work into the courses I teach. More so probably than the courses I take. That may be a bad thing in grad school but oh well. I am all about improving teaching practices and trying out new and different tools so here I

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-45501546933105136272009-01-06T22:06:00.004-06:002009-01-06T22:10:32.431-06:00

Check this out! I just think it is hilarious! Knowing that I teach fitness and I want the fitness class to be more practical, I am looking at a variety of workouts! How about the wii fit?

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-20190047622798310302009-01-04T18:54:00.002-06:002009-01-04T18:59:09.465-06:00

"Being creative as a teacher means that you must imagine the child within the environment and explore it with them."Are you born creative or can creativity be learned?"A study by George Land reveals that we are naturally creative and as we grow up we learn to be uncreative. Creativity is a skill that can be developed and a process that can be managed. Learning to be creative is akin to learning a

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-75554568735913541092009-01-03T20:58:00.005-06:002009-01-03T21:48:33.293-06:00

Reflecting on the year that has passed is not easy and actually, to be quite honest, I tried to avoid writing this letter even though I wanted to do it and need to do it. Why? I guess it helps me to wrap up the year and celebrate what I have done in order to embrace where I am today and set goals to where I must go next. If that makes sense. 2008 was a FULL year I would say and it was full of ups

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-52697273567575289692008-12-10T21:51:00.002-06:002008-12-10T22:14:18.294-06:00

It is finally there, I officially ended a full Fall semester within the PhD program. I have many thoughts, both positive and negative and now that I look back I am kind of amazed by how much I did during those 4 months. It really feels like I have been here a year. I am not sure if that is a good thing but let's sum up my experiences.a) teaching: taught 6 PEAC courses: jogging, bowling (2),

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-65769746301759120862008-12-03T22:05:00.004-06:002008-12-03T22:25:03.772-06:00

Alright, as I continue on this path I think I am slowly beginning to formulate the progression of my dissertation idea. It's about time don't you think? I have been here for one semester! Should almost be completing this thesis. ok, joking aside. Firstly, my area of research: instructional technology in PETE. A bit more specific: how can we use the Internet for learning about teaching PE? Even

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-18455537299594391232008-12-02T12:53:00.001-06:002008-12-02T12:53:16.789-06:00

That is my personal thought but so far it has not been an easy start here in the US. Most of it has to do with money. It is expensive and even with a teaching position, it is still difficult to make ends meet. The only burden I came across in Canada was starting the program in January and finishing to quick (1.5 years). And even though I seem to miss out on some of the notifications but they did

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-27046387740022775202008-11-18T21:00:00.002-06:002008-11-18T21:01:37.794-06:00

I am starting a new Departmental website using Sharepoint. The reason behind this decision was that the University was using Sharepoint, it is free and you can integrate wikis and blogs. I wanted to experiment with NING as well which I thought was a great social network but realized that for 1 credit hour courses, the students do not necessarily want to spend time interacting with each other. The

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-66108615583666575832008-11-17T21:44:00.001-06:002008-11-17T21:44:50.259-06:00

Mondays are really tough on me and I am trying to figure out why they affect me so much. It is like no matter what good foot I put forth, I always seem to get down on myself a bit on Monday. Several reasons perhaps:1) Tired from the weekend? I don't think so... slept much. 2) Not wanting to go back to work/class? Well, I do find that the courses I am taking at this time are someone repetitive and

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-1202958312548565592008-11-13T13:25:00.001-06:002008-11-13T13:25:26.849-06:00

I attempted to use ScribeFire through FireFox but it won't upload my picture which was a simple screen shot. I wanted to see if it was an easy solution to copy and pasting a screenshot in the blog but I will try again. Scribefire allows you to write several blog entries and put it in your blog by pushing a button. Also, there seems to be way more options for formatting. So I will try to

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-58055528497764814192008-11-12T23:26:00.003-06:002008-11-12T23:34:22.909-06:00

For my family and friends in "vlaanderen"! On the left you can push a button to have my blog translated in any language including dutch. I tried it and well, it is funny. Some of my sentences are messed up but I think it can actually help me keep my dutch close to heart! Next time I go home may be in another year and that is way too long so need to keep up with the Flemish.The Dutch is

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-17018951286345871752008-11-12T22:17:00.007-06:002008-11-12T22:43:43.640-06:00

In one course I ask my students to complete at least 3 days a full account on their eating and activity levels. I use the pyramid tracker and even though I tried it out once, I decided to go with it for a week. Reason? I think I eat too much in the weekend because I don't eat enough during the week. So let's see that this is correct. This tracker takes into consideration your activity level as

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-56196478656347629752008-11-12T09:04:00.004-06:002008-11-12T09:27:19.262-06:00

Completed an iVocalize session yesterday for an online course I am talking from the U of M on "online teaching". The course introduces people to several tools that can be used when you are teaching an online or hybrid course. Before the start of the course I wanted to firstly gain more practical info on web 2.0 tools and how to import these effectively in your courses. When I started the course I

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-61166748636486223782008-11-05T01:01:00.004-06:002008-11-05T01:41:43.673-06:00

I realize that my time is precious and know that every minute counts. As of the start of my program, one of my goals was to keep a balance between work and play. Thus far I have somewhat been successful in this quest. I work hard during the week so I can have my weekend open. However, I also know that if I want to publish, I must put away a few hours per week solely on writing and this has yet to

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-52468201815749545872008-10-02T23:21:00.004-05:002008-10-02T23:40:30.877-05:00

The email any graduate student hopes to get sooner then later came to me yesterday. It states that my article was accepted for publication. Having talked about the difficulties with publications and the length of the process I think I had the right attitude from the beginning. I submitted an article to the best of my abilities and thought it would be great if it got accepted but if it did not, I

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-30674220637674741222008-09-18T02:31:00.001-05:002008-09-18T02:31:03.586-05:00

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-82885138006254336382008-09-15T23:50:00.003-05:002008-09-16T00:12:18.541-05:00

Week four has begun! So far so good.Being critical of myself as I am all time I believe that my teaching is going ok but I could do better. a) About the classes I teach!What's working: the wiki in two classes has great results! Students are producing valuable articles. Other class has a bit more trouble. Wondering if I did something different? What I need to do next: Create wiki scavenger

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-77857462404324635722008-09-02T18:49:00.005-05:002008-09-02T19:21:04.661-05:00

I always thought grad school was about writing papers, gaining knowledge and being a loner. I asked several grad students whether they had a life besides school and often got the answer I did not want to get:"Nope, you pretty much live at school!" Before embarking on this journey I always searched for the program I could combine and balance both my personal and school activities. I don't know if

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-18215291764765617882008-08-21T21:29:00.004-05:002008-08-21T21:50:58.974-05:00

As I complete all the required and at times optional orientation sessions, I begin to realize the start of a new beginning and a new part of my life. I did not think that being a Doctoral student would be any different from being a Master student but I think there is. Actually, I thought there was a lot at stake in my Masters and once I got through it and into a Doctorate I would be just cruising

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-33673505787850336742008-08-13T22:11:00.005-05:002008-08-15T22:31:32.176-05:00

A busy day filled with sessions on immigration and studying. What have I learned? The importance of the 3 E's to keep my status as an international student and not get deported or arrested: Employment (max 20 hrs/week: on paper yes, however as GA's, I am positive I will work more than that!), Expiry (don't let your passport expire while you are in the US!) and Enrolment (min 6 credits max 9

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-45431398372519399902008-08-12T22:52:00.004-05:002008-08-12T23:02:27.205-05:00

Will Smith is saying it! Love what you do and do what you love. Running and reading are according to him the keys to life. When he talks about running he mentions that there is a little voice inside of you that wants you to quit and when you learn how to defeat that voice when you are running, you "will learn how to not quit when things get hard in your life". I am not sure if I can test this but

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-57978765064591885182008-08-12T21:43:00.003-05:002008-08-12T22:48:20.055-05:00

It is Tuesday, August 12th! Lately I have been watching the Olympics in amazement. The strength, endurance and motivation of the athletes have left me more then once speechless. I am in awe of the performances of all the athletes. No favorites, I follow all of them, in particular Belgium, Canada and the US. I love watching gymnastics, swimming and can't wait for track and field to start on

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-10137151466306649272008-08-07T23:31:00.002-05:002008-08-07T23:45:36.222-05:00

According to Wikipedia, insomnia is a symptom of a sleeping disorder characterized by persistent difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep despite the opportunity. It is typically followed by functional impairment while awake. Insomniacs have been known to complain about being unable to close their eyes or "rest their mind" for more than a few minutes at a time. This is the fourth time within

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-77504029008456133672008-08-06T11:19:00.003-05:002008-08-06T13:34:56.244-05:00

Activating the world of my students is my goal this year! How will I do that or at least try to attempt to do it? By giving the students active assignments, creating possibilities for them to socialize within an active environment and connecting technology to all of this. Step 1: Active homework: yes you heard me. All my students will need to organize one active session with a partner that I can

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-25128172660582512972008-08-04T19:09:00.008-05:002008-08-06T16:01:24.671-05:00

Alright, you do NOT, I repeat NOT want to read this paper but at least it is over and done with. Some adjustments will be made tomorrow but it is now 7:16 pm and i have been here in the library all day and I am tired! I had to take a summer course and decided to take this course that deals with management in higher education and new faculty. Great! Should really spark many ideas and at first it

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-7586399523212860312008-08-03T17:30:00.004-05:002008-08-03T17:57:10.076-05:00

I hit it again. One of the lows on my roller coaster ride. I have been in Fayetteville now since July 10th and have realized that too much change too fast is not good. Moving, running, new place, new people, new courses, finishing thesis,... I believe that taking this summer course was probably the biggest mistake ever. I am sure I may change my mind as I get credit for the work that I do but for

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-15606480685649611852008-08-01T00:15:00.003-05:002008-08-06T13:18:20.617-05:00

At the moment, I am attending an online summercamp, see Pbwiki.com. This summercamp is for those teachers who wish to design and implement a wiki into their course work. I will use the wiki http://peforever.pbwiki.com to organize all my courses and get my students involved in Web 2.0. So far I have learned many new tools, almost too many. I am trying to catch up on all the reading while

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-31973525166365816282008-07-31T23:48:00.002-05:002008-08-06T13:18:49.859-05:00

Trying out new Web Tools! This is Animoto, creating videos in a snap

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-67792870053650430732008-07-30T20:22:00.002-05:002008-07-30T21:17:38.487-05:00

It has been awhile since I reflected on here but yet I do have my reasons. I initially thought my summer would be relaxing. However, it turned out that I am more busy than ever. My quest of becoming a scholar has turned myself into a whirlwind of ideas that keep my mind so occupied I miss out on these vital reflective notes I wrote each night. IN fact, I know that writing on my blog is meditative

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-47603442970609208342008-07-16T11:01:00.001-05:002008-08-06T13:19:03.401-05:00

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-60700397156182547532008-07-01T13:45:00.002-05:002008-07-01T13:54:37.115-05:00

After hours and hours of writing frustration, it is finally over. My thesis is completed and now I must present it in an oral defense. I hope all goes well. Coordinating schedules with the committee members was not easy but a July 24th date has been set and I am happy I will be able to graduate this year. As a grad student, it seems crucial to be in contact with your committee members throughout

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-38738601209060205252008-06-10T16:42:00.003-05:002008-06-10T16:55:27.848-05:00

I guess that is what I am trying to do while writing my thesis. Keep going without losing it completely! AH, thesis writing is a time of pressure but it is also a time of closure as the end of a program is near. As this accumulation activity evolves before my eyes, I often reflect on when this process began. Why back in 2004 I wanted to start a Masters but did not just because I wanted to teach

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-53366443291426541102008-06-04T16:52:00.002-05:002008-08-06T13:19:35.864-05:00

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-33028374665669020752008-06-03T02:07:00.012-05:002008-06-03T02:40:55.949-05:00

On a Monday evening, in Banana Leaf Restaurant in Vancouver, on the last evening of the Congress, a team of scholars ( and me), shared a wonderful meal spiced with tales of the past. Being in the midst of these scholars, I felt honored and privileged. As they had many experiences, both in life and academia, I knew they would be a great resource for me as a graduate student. Even

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-42981587817595541632008-05-30T15:52:00.002-05:002008-05-30T16:09:47.439-05:00

I am attending the 2008 Congress here in Vancouver and have just completed a pre-conference workshop for new scholars. It was somewhat interesting. There was a panel of 4 scholars talking about finding balance. I don't think the workshop was for me really, I think it was more geared towards new profs. So that makes me believe that the words "new scholar" should be defined. When do you become a

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-23964364287262403052008-05-27T08:15:00.002-05:002008-05-27T08:23:30.082-05:00

A journey it is and active, yes, I have yet to relax this week. It has been hectic as I am between two conference, dealing with finishing a paper for publication, my thesis and moving to Arkansas. Trying to minimize the cost is a challenge but I will do it.My thesis writing is going OK. I will know more next week.My goal, and I must have these short time goals or I go nuts, are:- Get the

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-78987874562913688352008-05-20T00:46:00.002-05:002008-05-20T01:43:05.759-05:00

Talking about an emotional roller coaster! I was doing just fine this morning, yet I fell apart completely by 10 pm. Why? Maybe it is the fact that I at time, as many grad students seem to experience, can't see the trees in the forest. My tasks are simple:1) Write paper by this weekend (due June 1 but allowing time for edits) on my TGfU poster.2) Write thesis.In fact, I should not even be

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-22442594359164857642008-05-18T23:23:00.003-05:002008-05-18T23:59:27.768-05:00

After being gone for 30 days and following the TGfU conference, I find myself back in Winnipeg, experiencing the same neck pain I did before I left. Neck pain from sitting behind my laptop all day. Not sure why I have neck pain here and not somewhere else but I just realized how much of my job is on the computer and how the internet sure brought a lot of changes into this world.It is not just

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-54088040457997735322008-05-16T02:21:00.003-05:002008-05-16T02:41:05.318-05:00

As I lay in bed, 12 midnight, I reflect upon a long day of many highlights.I arrived late last night into Vancouver. I believe it was 2 am when I finally settled into my room at Gage Towers. I was happy to be here after a 12 hour journey from Little Rock. Three flights, thank goodness no delays!Got up at 6 to get ready for the big day! My first poster presentation! I was to say the least stoked!

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-3839030404802159942008-05-13T16:43:00.003-05:002008-05-13T17:14:14.010-05:00

I am excited and anxious at the same time. Tomorrow I am flying to Vancouver to present my poster at the TGfU (Teaching Games for Understanding) Conference. I will be presenting the whole day on Thursday. This poster outlines the findings of my research for my thesis.I will, if I have an hour, write about my first two years of graduate school, well 1.5 years as I started Jan 2007 and it is now

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-30736800182660077692008-05-12T11:59:00.000-05:002008-05-12T12:35:05.342-05:00

I started this blog just yesterday for two reasons. 1) to inform the public on the road one graduate travels on, the ups and downs, the moments of excitement and despair and 2) to provide myself with a space where I can reflect upon this fascinating journey. To begin this blog, I will provide some insight into my path through education so far.I first went to Kindergarten. ok, I won't go that far,

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1504358539646825088.post-62608005437847922172008-05-11T17:09:00.000-05:002008-05-11T17:17:24.839-05:00

Alright, I decided to create this blog for several reasons. Let us start with the beginning. Being a graduate student is not an easy task. Actually, choosing to become a graduate was the easy part but there is a lot more to it than that. While going through my Masters' program, I felt as if I was on a rollercoaster with many ups and downs and thought to myself, I should have kept a diary because

Helenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03450246121028389145noreply@blogger.com0