Discussions, Conferences, and Information Systems

I have found that blogging is not a natural gift for me, and so I apologize that I do not blog more often. That being said, in this new course EDLD 5362-Information Systems, we have focused on the various tools used by education systems to maintain, store, and manage data. We have also begin looking at some valuable tools for use in the classroom.

During this course I have attended two web conferences. The first was from week 1 in which discussion focused on the concern of writing a paper with too many sources and an extremely low word limit. This concern was also present in the week 4 web conference with additional frustration by students who have failed to familiarize themselves with the rather worthless TK20 portfolio program and the fact that the wrong assignment information had be placed in the Epic course ware. I appreciate Dr. Absire's willingness to work with all students. She seems to have a good grasp of the concerns that we all have on various subjects. She also seems to be invested in making sure the correct information is out there for everyone. The final issue addressed---which has become a whole new level of irritation and frustration---is the Principal Certification practice test and requirements. Those on track to earn a Master's in Educational Technology Leadership at Lamar University began exclusively working on this degree. In January our plan was changed to include Principal-ship courses. The expectation was that we would then be able to get our principal certification without problem. Lamar or whatever powers that be did not explain what this change would entail. So everyone expected to take the practice test, then the TExES, then be a certified principal candidate. Not so! Unfortunately there is much more to the equation including extra expenditures that were not mentioned. (We are all still very angry about TK20, where things are due, but nothing seems to count!!!) Also, Lamar doesn't offer the free practice exams in all areas of the great state of Texas. If you are not in the Houston, Austin, Beaumont area...well we don't know what to do! Unfortunately Dr. Absire is not the person with the answers to these questions. I honestly don't know that I want the answers.

I am in course 8 of my 12 course graduate program. There are 2 internship courses(I still don't know why) and 2 classes remaining. Am I griping, yes! For all that it is worth I love learning, but I am burnt out by changes, busy work, and hidden expenses. Even at a division 1 public university I knew all my fees and things did not change for everyone on a degree plan just because they were on that degree plan. Bottom line is there are some things that could have been left alone, and certainly some kinks for this degree program to work out before I will recommend it to anyone. (Sorry Lamar!) :(