I applied to Michigan State University’s Master of Arts in Educational Technology (MAET ) program in 2015 after participating in The Adam’s Academy teaching and learning cohort at Michigan State University.  I had been instructing in the Veterinary Technology program for 4 years and was already using, a few types of what I thought was effective technology, in my courses, and I was seeing positive outcomes in my student's attitudes and engagement. When I applied to the program my long-term goals revolved around my position as an instructor in the Veterinary Technology Program.  I wanted to become a better educator by gaining a deeper understanding of how, when and why to integrate technologies. I was interested in the development of authentic animal models and online and hybrid courses because that was a trend in higher education. And perhaps most importantly, I wanted to be a change agent for technology integration within veterinary technology education.

 

As I finish the last semester of the MAET program these goals have remained essentially the same, but have broadened to reach further outside of veterinary technology. I realize after reflection, that I want to be a technology integration leader in all veterinary medicine and perhaps even all types of health professional education. I have gained knowledge and skills that have not only allowed me to effectively integrate technology into my own courses, but to share effective integration with others based on course content and goals. I have gained the courage needed to engage in the curricular redesign within the College of Veterinary Medicine and play an active role in determining how the veterinary technology program will integrate into the new competency-based curriculum. I strive to design experiences that are meaningful and authentic, create environments that allow students to generate usable knowledge and skills and teach future veterinary professionals how to view each situation and case through a critical thinking lens.

 

Every situation presents a new opportunity for learning to occur. Recognizing and utilizing each learning opportunity is a trait that I personally strive to cultivate and also instill in my students. By developing and cultivating my own professional learning network, specifically engaging in social media outlets and in several educational affinity spaces, I have expanded the scope of my own education and diversified the community in which I gain and share my teaching and learning experiences.

 

Learning is fluid, learning is messy, learning can and should happen at all times.  The medical profession is ever changing and evolving, as is technology, and future health professionals must develop the skills and passion to explore, discover and engage in information. I will foster this passion and promote these skills.