TTU K-12 Well-represented at Distance Learning Annual Conference

Three representatives from TTU K-12 presented at the Texas Distance Learning Association (TXDLA) annual conference in Dallas, March 20-23. Dr. Jim Taliaferro, superintendent; Cari Moye, high school principal; and Jeff Oldham, international and K-8 principal, focused their discussion on the characteristics of a successful online learner:

"Online learning can sound like a dream come true until we take that first course," they noted. "That's when we find out that the online learning platform requires a deeper academic skill set than expected."

They conveyed to the group the following list of considerations for being a successful online learner:

• • Are you intrinsically motivated to learn?
  • When things get tough do you give up or do you face the challenge head on and work through it?
  • Do you have a set of strategies for deciphering reading passages and analyzing complex information?
  • Do you know how to develop your own academic calendar?
  • Do you have a plan for communicating with your teachers and peers in new and innovative ways?
  • Can you problem-solve when things go wrong, technically?
  • What do you do when your brothers, sisters or pets are a distraction?

Dr. Taliaferro also serves on the TXDLA Board of Directors as the parliamentarian.