Which is silly, I know...I'm a grown-up now, and I know how to swim, and I actually enjoy making a big splash off the diving board and all that.
But there's an analogue here...
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| Image from VentureofFaith |
And if I'm honest, it's a little off-putting for me. I'm feeling like I've jumped into the deep end of the pool. I know I can swim--I've had the "swimming lessons" I need, technologically-speaking. But I don't just want to tread water, and I sure hope I'm not belly-flopping here. I'd like to think I'm making a graceful entry into the water, and gliding along smoothly.
But let's be real: I'm no Michael Phelps. I didn't break the surface smoothly; my strokes are a little ragged so far. I'm making forward progress, but I know I need to refine my technique a little.
It can be scary diving into the deep end. And that's true of kids in swimming lessons, true of graduate students getting into heavy content in an unfamiliar milieu, and of professors exploring new formats for their teaching practice!
Great analogy! I still remember the first time I jumped in, or rather was dumped into, the deep end of the pool. Suddenly all the skills that I had been taught, but was too afraid to use, came together and I could swim. I still found comfort in the lifeguard that stood nearby but I was doing it on my own.
ReplyDeleteIt feels that way with this technology class, as well. Until I am forced to use the skills that I have been taught or have discovered, I am fearful. When I jump or dive into the deep end, it will all come together. At least, I am hoping that it will:)
Another friend who had read this post emailed me something like this: "If your head is above water, you're on top. Think about all the water under you...it isn't over you."
DeleteI thought that was a helpful reminder--even though it can seem daunting when you feel like you're paddling furiously...
Also, at swimming lessons this morning, my daughter went off the board for the first time. Into the deep end, kids!