Source: basharbbr. (2011). support____by_basharbbr-d4lwy1n [Image file]. Retrieved from http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2012/010/1/1/support____by_basharbbr-d4lwy1n.jpg

I started my teaching career after completing my B.A. in Philosophy in 2001. At the time, perhaps the only “technology” that was used most in my lessons was the CD player, because that was the only technology readily available at the schools in which I worked. At first, I was not aware of the role technology played in education because technology seemed to be an add-on to the lessons rather than something that could be used as an integral part of student learning.

I then decided to return to UBC to further my understanding in the field of education. As I worked through my TESL and B.Ed. programs, opportunities arose where I was able to integrate technology into some of my lessons. To my surprise, the results were very positive. Perhaps this was due to the novelty effect, but my students were more engaged with each other in the lessons that were mediated by technologies such as the computer, Internet, camcorder, and more.

I started to wonder how technology could be used to enhance student learning. Why was technology not being used more frequently in the traditional classrooms? How exactly can technology be used to enhance student learning? What are the best methods of incorporating technology into the various educational settings? The possibilities seemed endless!

Upon finishing my B.Ed. degree, my TESL practicum mentor suggested that I could enrol in the Master of Educational Technology program at UBC. I was overjoyed at her suggestion because I had not realized that there was a graduate program which combined both my interest in technology and my chosen career path in education!

In retrospect, I believe this was the moment when the roots of my MET tree started to develop. My appreciation for this opportunity for learning goes to my TESL practicum mentor whose advice planted the original seed which grew into my MET tree. As well, without the dedicated support of my wife and parents, I would not be here in the MET program today.

Thank you.