Edld 5363 ENB Web conferences Reflections

Web conferences have been standard throughout the Lamar master's program.  I have found them to be a valuable resource of information.  Dr. Abernathy begins her conference with the statement "Purpose- to clarify issues (if we have any) with our program and our course."  She is always ready to reply to questions, comments and requests for information.  If she doesn't know the information, she will look it up for clarification.  This course had more than the usual once a week conferences scheduled making it easy to participate.  I attended as many as I could, but I took notes on June 13, June 28 and June 29.  I had technical difficulties with one conference where I was signed in and only had audio.  I didn't count that conference.  Dr. Abernathy's conferences allows for free exchange of information not only with her but with other members of the group.  This sharing of information allowed group members to coordinate groups, solve technical difficulties, ask about details concerning assignments or advice concerning projects.  In the June 13 conference, some specific questions were asked of submitting assignment.  In the early part of any course it takes a week or two for everyone to settle into the new technology skills, each other and unfamiliar aspects.  For the June 28th conference, Dr. Abernathy asked everyone to share their experience from ISTE in San Antonio.  Several had attended workshops and received important information, free technology and support.  While there was some difficulty with a mic not working the conference was beneficial with questions addressed and information shared.  The June 29th conference again shared information about ISTE since not everyone attended the conference on the 28th.  Advice was given about projects, and even about career paths.  Some have expressed concern about principal certification through Technology master's.  Many districts need, stress and require technology and data background in their administration, and not all jobs are as principals, but rather as administrators.  The technology master's with principal certification opens up their qualifications, not limits it.  Dr. Abernathy addressed this issue in the June 29th conference.  I don't say much in the conferences, because most of the others generally address the same issues I am having, and I just listen.  I have always found them to be important and learn something each time I attend.  I appreciate the time the professors take to schedule each one.