Marcia Weaver
COM/516
May 6, 2012
Denise Corso
Abstract
In this paper, I take the reader through my search and the processes I went through as a visual learner to decide on my choice of instruction, online or traditional. I identify my strengths and highlight how I have used them in this course; uncover my weaknesses, and present strategies on what to adjust to accommodate them. I also analyze the sources of my preconceived notions about online learning, why they came about, how they affected me, how they relate to my learning style, what I have learned from them, and how I plan to move forward using the information gleaned from the analysis. It is my plan to use the discoveries I made from my self-assessment and reflection as the baseline for a toolkit to guarantee my continued success and improved performance in the online academic world as well as in my personal growth.
Self-Assessment and Reflection
I have almost three weeks’ experience in an online learning environment. These last few weeks flew by, and I feel relief knowing that I made it this far. When I assess my performance, I feel very proud of myself. Quite frankly, I expected worse. I used this assignment to uncover the reasons behind opposite results obtained through two similar modes of instruction supporting visual learners. I also determined if my learning style was a factor in this successful three-week period and if so, in what ways.
The Search
As a visual learner, I naturally wanted to learn in a real classroom so I could see my instructors and classmates face to face. I believed that my motivation depended on physical presence so, in my initial search for schools, I stayed away from the online choices. However, the schools that offered the programs that interested me either only offered them online or in a blended format. Virtual learning seemed like the trend, but I wanted to be part of it only if it matched my needs and goals.
References: Drago, W.A., & Wagner, R.J. (2004). Vark preferred learning styles and online education. Management Research Review, 27(7), 1-13. Retrieved from http://hltp://search.proquesttcom,ezprDxv,apo|o|ibrary.canVdocvew/??3544316? accountid=35812 Riener, C., & Willingham, D. (2010, Sep/Oct). The myth of learning styles. Change, 42(5), 32-35. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.ezproxv.apololibrarv.com/docview/751270150? accoi.ntld=35812 What 's your learning style? The results. (2012). Retrieved from http://educationplanner.org/students/self-assessments/learning-styles.shtml Self-Assessment and Reflection Paper Rubric | Points Possible | Points Earned | Prepare a 1,050- to 1,750-word Self-Assessment and Reflection Paper in which you discuss your personal learning style | 50 | | . Assess your strengths and opportunities for growth. | 50 | | Create an improvement strategy based on this assessment. | 50 | | Cite a minimum of two references, both within the paper and on a reference page. The references must be obtained from the University Library and not from the Electronic Reserve Readings. | 25 | | Format the paper consistent with APA guidelines. Conventions. | 25 | | Total | 200 | |