What I Learned from a Technology Glitch | Remember the Time with Thomasina Tafur

Remember the Time Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the Dear Professor series, listeners join Dr. Kellie Alston and guest Ms. Thomasina Tafur to delve into the dynamic world of online learning. This special segment entitled "Remember the Time" offers a relatable glimpse into the triumphs and tribulations faced by virtual learners, through Thomasina's personal narrative. The episode promises to enthrall readers with an inside look at the often unpredictable nature of online courses.

Thomasina recounts a particularly memorable day from her online PhD program, where she faced unexpected technical difficulties during a crucial Zoom presentation on Sarbanes-Oxley legislation. The episode emphasizes themes such as problem-solving, perseverance, and the importance of community support within an online learning environment. Wrapped in humor and humility, her story resonates with anyone who's had to pivot quickly when technology fails. This special segment remarkably captures Thomasina's journey to overcoming obstacles.

Key Takeaways:

• Navigating technical challenges in online courses can be daunting but solvable with patience and resourcefulness.
• The importance of developing a contingency plan for presentations, such as sharing your materials with others beforehand.
• The value of a supportive online community and fostering connections with classmates to help overcome unexpected issues.
• Keeping perspective and staying calm when faced with difficulties, as the worst-case scenario is often less catastrophic than imagined.
• The episode underlines the learning opportunities that come from experiencing and resolving technology-related setbacks.

Notable Quotes:

• "I do know how to do this. I'm not stupid."
• "Fortunately for me, the professor said, okay, we're going to have somebody else present right now."
• "So from that day forward, anytime it was my time to present on Zoom, I would share my PowerPoint presentation with both the professor or another student."
• "I also learned to be grateful for your colleagues, especially the ones that raise their hand and say, hey, I'm going to get off this Zoom, not listen to somebody else's presentation so I can help you."
• "What's the worst thing that can happen? Okay, you don't present tonight…Say a little prayer. You'll get through this and try to take something away from it."

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Website: kelliealston.com

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