So far, I have found it challenging to find the balance between multiple work loads and schedules. The PGCert has so far, provided a great platform and space for me to assess my working practice with that of others however, many Moodle notifications later, I am finding time management overwhelming.
“The positive interdependence that binds group members together is posited to result in feelings of responsibility for (a) completing one’s share of the work and (b) facilitating the work of other group members.” (Johnson & Johnson, 2009). This quote feels extremely relevant here as working collaboratively with other lecturers on the PGCert has proven to be extremely reassuring. Working collaboratively and feeling a mutual interdependence during sessions has had a positive impact on my learning through the awareness of a shared experience. A particularly beneficial activity has been the introductory question, posed at the start of each physical session at LCC. Not only has it created a strong rapport amongst the cohort, but initiated deep and insightful reflections that have helped me to deal with hurdles such as workloads.
My work partner Marion, and I, have developed a close friendship through this experience. I am unsure if the partnering was intentional or randomised however, with both of us being of similar age and experience, we have shared a mutual feeling towards the difficulties and benefits of implementing ‘radical’ pedagogy. I look forward to getting to know other members of our cohort better also. So far, I am enjoying being the only faculty member from my team in this cohort. It has allowed for a freedom of speech and is providing perspective on how other courses are structured. This is in addition to understanding how others approach team moral, and handle time management.
Echoing this fully, balancing an ever-increasing, ever demanding workload alongside the PG Cert does feel like a tricky thing to do, doesn’t it? Considering this was published at the beginning of the month, have you found any particular way of working that has been helpful this far? If so, fancy sharing with the less organisationally fortunate?
Hey!
Since the post, I feel very similarly however, it’s becoming a lot more clear as to what’s being asked and encouraged of us. I would say that keeping days separated (and muting notifications from work emails) has helped. The peer sessions, such as today’s where writing is a part of the session has been super helpful, what do you think?