Writer’s block

I looked over the units when the work for module 4 was released, and my heart sank.  The digital story assignment hadn’t just gone away, like I was hoping it would!  As a matter of fact, it was looming!  And I don’t have an idea for a story.

I better get an idea – right away – or I’m finished!  But I don’t have an idea, at all.  And John’s clarification didn’t help.  Create a story?  Narrative?  Story-telling?  Oh no!  My brain has frozen.

I went for a coffee after work yesterday with a friend and colleague who works at a different campus.  During our rambling conversation, the topic of the digital story-telling assignment came up.   While I was trying to explain to her what it was all about, my brain started to warm up and I could see how I could use a story in my teaching, and within a very short time, I had my idea!

This illustrates for me the importance of being able to discuss ideas, when you are learning.  It convinces me, more than ever, that my students (who are working on self-paced courses, usually in isolation from students working on the same course) will benefit from using social media to connect with other learners.

My story?  It has practically written itself!  I have my first draft, which I’m looking forward to polishing.  I’ve been exploring the different tools, and have enjoyed looking for illustrations.  I’ll put it all together over the next few days.