Final Reflection #CMC11
My Creativity and Multicultural Communication experience was
dynamic especially in comparison to traditional learning and more vigorous than
even online courses. Exploring how cultural learning enhances our creativity
was intriguing and at the same time discovering that creativity lies dormant in
everyone was quite inspiring.
The abstract format of this Massive Open Online Course
(MOOC) was at first disconcerting and uncomfortable until I freed my mind of
previously established constraints. The instructor Carol Yeager knew the best
way to learn in this environment is to struggle while we searched for a customized
path. As a MOOC student, I was forced to think critically in planning my own goals
for learning on this meandering and enlightening journey. To share in part my enthusiasm
for this MOOC, I created my first PowerPoint and uploaded to YouTube for
viewing. This presentation can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHsB_Qzo3lw.
During a recent discussion with Carol, she shared her
thoughts on instructor feedback describing the students’ strengths and
weaknesses as opposed to simply assigning grades. This conversation made me
realize in order to progress we need to recognize both strengths and weaknesses. I decided to self-critique and address a strength
as well as a weakness that throughout this class came to the forefront.
STRENGTH-Since my youth I have been aware of my creative tendency,
end of story. However, in the past thirteen weeks I was exposed to inspiring material
that made me realize it does not need to stop there. As a result, I now intend resumption
of an abandoned project previously thought unrealistic; following through with writing
a book started six years ago.
WEAKNESSES-Albeit many, one weakness in particular throughout
the years has contributed a considerable amount of self-imposed frustration. Because
of the free-style format of a MOOC, I was allowed to discover I dabble a little
in many things. Once I scratch the surface enough to satisfy my curiosity, I
move on to the next interest never giving extensive thought to any one area.
This behavior that theoretically maintained a well-rounded
[shallow] perspective continued until I viewed a video link supplied in the
list of weekly assignments. The guest speaker featured in this video gave
advice on how to lead a less complicated life; do a few things well and do not
exhaust yourself trying to be “well-rounded”.
I liked the thought that well-rounded is overrated, so I did simplify
and I DO feel more fulfilled. This simplified lifestyle has freed my mind of
clutter allowing creativity to once again surface. I could not have chosen a
better class for the culmination of my academic career with Empire State
College.
