Who are you, and what do you like to learn about? (academically, professionally, and/or personally)
Hello All,
I’v been known as “Tracey-the-Trainer” in my professional career. I have delivered training in various industries such as the financial, medical and Human and Social Services. The most satisfying aspect about the field has been in being able to experience that “Ah-hah” moment when a learner really grasps a concept. I am currently an instructional designer in the government sector.
I enjoy learning about everything. I am also an avid reader and have most recently taken an interest in learning about Generational Learning Styles. I think that this is often looked over. Instructional Designers who really understand their learner characteristics create both engaging and effective courses. They are better able to apply key principles which lead to the ability of learners to gain and retain skills and knowledge that are being taught.
My side passion has been in the elder services community. We own a small personal care home in Atlanta called Sassy Seniors Living. Our seniors are still learning too. Some are playing Wii bowling and using laptops and iPads for the first time. Our most seasoned senior is 97. Learning never stops and I am proud to be a part of that!
What hardware do you use to learn? (Eg. smart phone, tablet, laptop, desktop)
Laptops, Ipads and Smart Phones are my main tools!
What software do you use to learn? (Eg. search engines, mobile apps, social networks, eBooks, digital libraries, wikis, blogs, videos, podcasts)
I mostly use Wikis, Search Engines, Social Networks, eBooks (Kindle & Barnes and Noble), Podcasts, Videos and Blogs.
What digital tools do you wish you had access to for learning? (Eg. any graphic organizers, mind-mapping tools, resource management tools, progress tracking tools, design tools, etc.) Why?
Mind mapping tools, design tools and progress tracking tools sound appealing because I really like to see tangible evidence of personal growth professionally and personally.
What might your ideal Personal Learning Environment (PLE) look like?
My ideal (PLE) would include a suite of instructional design applications with a constructivist learning environment feel. I have a personal goal to learn 4-5 key ones to include a few Web 2.0 ones like VOKI. It would also have an area to maintain/edit the creation of a portfolio of quality samples that could be uploaded for potential clients. It would allow me to keep my resume as well as an access area for outside resources like the e Learning guild, ATD, etc. A little area offering articles and tips regarding the industry wouldn’t hurt either.
