At the beginning of this semester, only one of my classes was completely web-based, while the other two were only web-enhanced and met in person once a week. However, the spread of COVID-19 forced educational institutions to shift learning to the digital realm — aka, into my comfort zone. As such, all three of my classes became online classes halfway through the semester. While I can understand the hesitancy and dismay of my peers, this situation provided the perfect opportunity to build experience in my preferred medium. I have been incredibly grateful for the opportunity to hone my skills using the Blackboard LMS (learning management system).
As you may have noticed, I appreciate technology and the alterations it’s made to communication and language. I plan to write a dissertation on the subjects of Ulmerian theory and electracy, after all. Not only do I have the opportunity to teach online, but I also have the distinct pleasure of helping my students navigate language and discourse utilizing the technology that enables people on opposite sides of the planet to “meet” in real time. By now, we are all familiar with Zoom and the myriad events hosted on the platform — so it goes without saying that my students must learn to communicate within such parameters. This semester has been such a treat for me, even in the face of a frightening pandemic.
