OK, I’m going to be honest here. I hated school; I was rubbish there. I really didn’t do well. It was a relief to get away from it when I was 16.
I think ever since I learned to read, I have not shied away from difficult topics, my main reading genre was science fiction (there was a point where I pretty much refused to read anything else), and later I did go to university as a mature student – twice, and part time at that. I wouldn’t have done that if I hadn’t enjoyed the experience.
And now here I am at retirement, and what have I done? I’ve thrown myself into the University of the Third Age. Learning for the elderly (that’s probably a bit blunt, but hey-ho). I have to say, it’s difficult to explain the fun I am having with it, and I’m only three months in.
I have a todo list of, admittedly self-imposed, homework. I don’t have to do any of it, I do it, because I am enjoying it. This is how school should have been.
I’ve spent a bit of time this evening reading an absolutely fascinating book, and have been using padlet, which I think I am beginning to find really useful.
I think one of my best Open University years was when I did THD204 – information Technology & Society. It was a mixed group of techies and sociologists, and as you can imagine it got a bit fiery at times, and I got quite excited the course – I loved it.
I think I’m reliving some of that enjoyment now. Learning what I want, when I want. Simply because I can. Love it.
Bills Posts 