Hi everyone! My name is Zarah Mathai, and I am a high school math and science teacher. I graduated from OISE (Ontario Institute for Studies in Education) at the University of Toronto in 2011. I taught abroad in China for three years at a BC offshore school where my primary teaching focus was math, science and senior chemistry. My then fiancée and I returned home to Mississauga to get married, and after a year in the GTA, we made the move out west in January 2017. Both of us have since found teaching positions with the Langley School Board and are looking to settle down on the west coast.
I have been on maternity leave for 11 months and am enjoying every moment with my baby girl. Having children is definitely life-changing and it has been an adjustment. In my spare time (when I do get time), I love to read, take walks, and – when the inevitable need arises – catch up on sleep.
This is my 5th course in the MET program. I am eagerly looking forward to learning new pedagogical, technological skills to enhance both student learning and my practice. The definitions in Module 1 have already challenged and broadened my understanding of text and technology. The picture below depicts how connected we are to technology and new forms of communication. Having a little one in the house has caused my family to revisit how we do things and change a few habits. My husband and I have decided to limit our little one’s exposure to technology until she is about 2 years of age. As you can imagine, this is easier said than done. We are struggling with it, but we find ourselves spending more time together as a family: taking walks and road trips, going camping, reading, singing, dancing, etc.
I look forward to learning with you all!
Zarah
References
Technology the biggest challenge facing research, says Grit report
Marcia
May 27, 2018 — 11:45 am
Hi Zarah!
I am a stay-at-home mother at this time, as well but my daughter is 2 and I’m actually expecting again. My husband and I also struggle with limiting screen time but find that all rules go out the window when we are on road trips or on airplanes! I love your suggestions about getting out and doing more things. So true! Congratulations on having a baby girl. I know it will be challenging to fit coursework into your new family life but best of luck to you! Langley will be a nice place to explore. My in-laws and my brother both live in Langley.