If you asked me when I started thinking about getting my master’s degree online, I would have laughed aloud at the idea, as I never intended to do that. However, one day at my school, I received a flier about 100% online graduate degrees that I could obtain from Thomas University.
I reached out to the university for some information about the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program, liked what I heard, and went all in. Now, having earned my degree completely online, I would not have it any other way.
What Concerns Did You have Before Pursuing A Graduate Program?
We are all stretched thin in the teaching profession: grades must be posted quickly, feedback is expected within twenty-four hours, meetings and parent conferences keep us from planning during our actual planning periods. Oftentimes teachers work far past the end of the school day, carrying work home or coming in early to keep up.
For this reason, I wanted to ensure that the graduate program I was to be a part of would respect my time. I was concerned that a graduate program would not allow me the opportunity to be a husband, father, and friend.
Did You Have Any Reservations About a Fully Online Program?
My thoughts against an online degree consisted of worrying it would not be personal, that I would struggle to pay attention, try my hardest but not learn that much. I have never been the type of person to complete a lengthy task simply for the financial return. Suppose I am to spend my time completing a task, going through the difficulties of reading, writing, and completing assignments. In that case, I want to know the information will be applicable to my profession and potentially allow me the chance to be promoted at some point.
How Did Thomas University’s Online Format Address Your Concerns?
First and of utmost importance for me, the graduate program at Thomas University respected my time. We only had five zoom classes over an eight-week period, which was the length of each class during the program. The workload ensured that the assignments were meaningful and worthwhile. I had ample time during the week for family time and recreational activities while working on weekly assignments.
Thomas University’s program also exceeded my expectations by offering meaningful courses from engaging and thoughtful professors. The professors at Thomas University are an excellent group of educators. They used class time to provoke thought from students, provided a safe environment for sharing experiences and opinions on topics discussed in class, and challenged students to stretch their practices in the classroom while going through the program.
What we learned was applicable for classroom use during and after the program and has been added to my teacher tool bag. I am a better teacher because of the strategies learned and research digested during the program.
What Resources and Tools Did You Use Throughout Your Program?
Another strength of the Thomas University program was that the technology tools required by the program were few. I used my computer with its webcam, a set of headphones with a microphone, and a few textbooks that we were required to purchase. We used very few textbooks, which was a blessing for multiple reasons. I appreciated the ability to record videos of discussion responses using Zoom.
How Did You Foster Connection and Collaboration with Your Cohorts and Professors?
I had never met anyone in my cohort prior to starting the program, nor had I ever met any of my professors. I never imagined I would build connections with any of them after completing the program online. This was not the case. First, the professors were very personable. They were available for questions and personal meetings if students needed additional help on assignments.
The professors also challenged students to work together on group projects and have breakout discussion sessions during class that forced us to get to know one another and speak to one another during each class period. The cohort of students also stayed together during the entire program, which helped us build some relationships with each other.
In Your Opinion, What are the Top Advantages of Thomas University’s Online M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction Program?
Thomas University offered a quality degree program for an affordable price. The time commitment was not overbearing and provided many opportunities to grow professionally. The topics I studied and research I completed as part of my classes made me a better teacher and challenged me to push other teachers to improve.
The class sizes are small; my cohort had about a dozen students, which allowed for a more personalized instructional environment. The professors are caring, knowledgeable, and patient, offering assistance whenever needed. I have improved as an educator and person because of being part of a Thomas University graduate program, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.