Reflections on Connections to the Drexel Program
The purpose of this "blogger homepage" is to provide materials that demonstrate connections to the Drexel Ed. D program. Much like preparing homepages for my courses and professional development workshops, the home page is a tool for our discussions today and an artifact of my work for later review.
When I completed my degree at the University of Illinois, I was a full time high school teacher with one pre elementary child and one elementary child. I can identify with the challenges of professionals who want to continue their education. The Drexel program, as I understand is particularly designed to meet the needs of the engaged professional. Individuals who choose to begin a rigorous graduate program, as outlined, will be interesting, motivated students. I would look forward to working with such a group. The example below illustrates a similar teaching opportunity that I have experienced that has similarities to the Drexel cohort online model.
I look forward to meeting all of you during my visit. I hope my comments, my formal presentation. references on this home page will contribute to the understanding of my qualifications, my work and insights into my perspectives and passions for teaching.
Respectfully,
Kathryn Smith
When I completed my degree at the University of Illinois, I was a full time high school teacher with one pre elementary child and one elementary child. I can identify with the challenges of professionals who want to continue their education. The Drexel program, as I understand is particularly designed to meet the needs of the engaged professional. Individuals who choose to begin a rigorous graduate program, as outlined, will be interesting, motivated students. I would look forward to working with such a group. The example below illustrates a similar teaching opportunity that I have experienced that has similarities to the Drexel cohort online model.
One of the most successful programs that I lead was a cohort Curriculum and Instruction graduate program located 150 miles west of our traditional campus. Courses were offered via interactive television, internet course work, week end focused courses and summer workshops with extended opportunities for self directed projects, When students completed their self directed work, they had the option to take a third level course where they mentored a colleague,
Not only were we able to make a difference in the individual lives of our participants but, through the projects they completed ,the area school districts benefited from the reform activities and action research done by the graduate students. While visiting a student teacher, one of my former cohort told me that students from the program still met once a month to continue their relationships!
Respectfully,
Kathryn Smith
