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| Kites from the Sigur Ros film "Heima" |
I could go on and reflect on more than a hundred things I've learned in the past two years, but I don't think that would be entirely beneficial at the moment. What most impressed me; what I most think back on and appreciate above all else are the relationships and interactions with people from all over the US. Yes, they were short. Usually just 8 weeks. But its all about learning new perspectives: seeing things from another point of view; learning what frustrates others; learning what it takes to work together with people you've never met, let alone never seen before.
21st century learners are going to experience working and collaborating with people of different race, ethnicity, religion, and geographic location if they aren't already doing so. Learning to collaborate - actually working together to achieve a purpose - is not simply about tolerance and respect, its about listening, learning, and opening one's self to the potential of a broader spectrum of understanding. Its admitting that your way may not be the best way, just a possible solution. Its about gaining the humility to accept your own ideas may be embraced, altered, denied, or tinkered with.
As an 21st century educator/learner its my responsibility to not simply understand this but to practice it as well. The last two years of online coursework, Skype sessions, discussion forums, and collaborative projects have provided some excellent practice and experiences. Thanks to each of my classmates for having shared. You offered new perspectives in so many different facets of education. You've given me a lot to think about and it will always be greatly appreciated!
(image collected from http://earthlingsoft.net/ssp/blog/graphics/SigurRosKites.jpeg)
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