Summary07560

07:560 Overview of Educational Issues  Summary: This course was the first course that I took in what was to become my journey on the Master’s program. I recall taking the course in the summer of 2003 and it quickly became one of my most enjoyable activities. Not having taken any University courses for a number of years, it was exciting and enjoyable to get back into the classroom and do some learning in an area that I had some expertise and experience. The course was taught by Dr. Donna Michaels and it also became a favourite. The class responses and reflections on readings were an excellent way to introduce me to a world that I did not know existed.  Benefits/Resultant Knowledge  As a result of taking this course, I was introduced to the world of educational research and how that research should inform our practices in the school setting. The mandatory thoughtful reflections engaged me in a way that I had not been engaged for years. Armed with this ‘new’ knowledge, I was able to look critically at what I was doing in my school and how I could act to change things for the better. I was reflection on this as my role as a principal in a small K-6 school in rural Manitoba.  Professional Use  Again, the immediate response that I had was to go back to my school in September and engage teachers and staff in discussions surrounding what we do in Education. I can remember starting a 3 ring binder in the staff room which contained various articles and readings which I received online or which I had received in my course and that I encouraged my teachers to read. I also used some articles as discussion points at our staff meetings to hopefully whet the appetite of those who had not yet experienced the joys of graduate studies. The amazing feeling that I had about taking this course and the other course in the summer of 2003 is still with me today. It is a choice that I will never regret.