LETTER TO BLACKBOARD

Sherese A. Mitchell

Dear Blackboard:

I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for the countless lessons you have provided during the last six years of my teaching career at Hostos. Without you, the refined craft of my online teaching would not have been possible.

Initially, I was the hesitant educator who ran from change in the area of technology. Why? I had no idea who you were. Fear of the unknown is al l coo common in our society and I allowed that fear to get the best of me. As I look back, I realize I should have taken 1he rime 10 gee co know you sooner without passing judgment.

Our relationship began when I was asked to nourish you by uploading my course syllabi to your very existence. Without me, you were an empty shell. So, you are welcome. Surprisingly, it was nor a difficult task. In fact, every semester that followed I continued this practice as I helped you grow. From there I began co upload

course documents and Power Points to the site. Students were able to access course documents at their leisure. Individuals who were absent were able to keep up with the class. In addition, when document were misplaced, they were easily recovered. 1his empowered students to be responsible and accountable for their learning. As for me, because students were able to remain on task, it made my job much easier.

I was feeling real good about the baby steps chat I had taken in our relation­ ship. This goo d feeling encouraged me.: to become more ambitious incorporating technology into my life. I even bought an iPhone and iPad co your dismay. In purchasing the iPad, I joined Hostos' initiative and experimented with many ocher colleagues who too were in their beginning stages of technology education. I felt even more empowered and supported.

Next, I experimented with your communication tools. At times there were stimulating classroom conversations 1ha1 had to end, bur chis instrument allowed discussion to continue. I offered this Optional enrichment, and found many students wanted to be a part of chose conversations via your unique element- the discussion board. How clever! This feature even allowed shy students to come forward and share their views. In the hybrids that I was teaching, this aspect allowed me to have the best of both worlds. Students were now able to share in and out of class in larger quantities. I was feeling very optimistic about my progress and even more hopeful for what the future had to offer.

Shortly thereafter, l decided to join EdTech. I felt even more connected because I had become a part of an ongoing conversation about you. Connecting to colleagues from other disciplines allowed me to realize I was not alone and there was strength in numbers.

What J will disclose next will probably amaze you, but I know our friendship can withstand this information. I was never a next, or technology person. The flip phone was very comfortable to me while everyone else was swiping and discovering in formation instantly. I never wanted you or any form of technology in my life because I was comfortable. You know how it goes, "If it is not broken, don't fix it." But I can say honestly, "it" (my teaching) was kind of missing something. You have brought so many students together. In addition, you have helped me to interact with students who were lose in the classroom. You helped them break free from fear of showing ochers who they were. I have been introduced co so many students through you. When students shared their thoughts on discussion boards and blogs, it was very empowering. It was even more validating for them to see their peers agree with them. Not only have you helped them break free, but you saved me! You rescued me from that one-note thinking that a routine is the way of the classroom. Yes, routines and structure are good. However, going with the flow and the times have served me much better. I will never forget the many gifts that you have provided. 111a11k you for your patience as I struggled to figure you out and your acceptance of me as a learner. 1 will be by your side throughout your many versions. Everyone goes through changes. You have taught me change: can be very good. I am grateful for you Blackboard and your father "technology”. I know who you are now because I took the rim e co gee co know you. You have enriched the lives of my students and my life as well.

ln gratitude,

Dr. Sherese A. Mitchell