So, it has been 10 days since my first skype session with two of the module leaders from Middlesex University and the rest of the students taking the course alongside me. These past few days have confused me, made me extremely nervous and have tested me, however I am pretty sure that I'm not the only one feeling a sense of stress when put into a completely different scenario than what I have been used to, prior to starting an independent, self constructed, work based learning course. One method which I have used to ease me into the start of the new experience, was to read and make notes of anything and everything related to the module and course itself, giving me sturdy foundations to then build upon when starting the allocated tasks. These consisted of three handbooks and guides which I printed out and put into a new pretty folder (helps me to be motivated), which include a handbook, of the 2016-2017 programme, module 1 handbook, and a reader which is used to inspire us and help with creativity and ideas when researching into theories and literature. Although a lot of the reading consisted of rereading sentences and using dictionary.com to understand some unfamiliar words, I feel that I have made sufficient progress from the introductory skype session which is a positive start. Even blogging is completely new to me, but I am excited to begin a completely alien outlook on learning, which is done through myself, being independent, self-motivated and working in the industry.
Away from the course itself, I have been lucky enough to have been asked to start freelance teaching work for a Leicester based community dance company called 'Moving Together'. They offer projects and workshops to a range of ages and abilities across the community which excites me as I have always had a great passion for teaching. I find it rewarding and love to see a sense of improvement in dancers, whether it be concerning confidence and self-esteem, or just their general dance ability.
So this is my first blog complete of many I am sure. Looking forward to reading about everyone's experiences and also to writing down mine too.
