Chillin’ in a cafe in Paris. Not too shabby.
I’m back from summer vacation!
It was a wonderful and much-needed break, thanks for asking. I feel refreshed and ready to dive into year two of my MBA course work. During my travels, I also had some time to think about where I’m going with this project. I’m looking forward to sharing some of these insights over the coming semester.
Here is a taste of what’s coming next:
Themes of the semester
Two courses recently caught my attention, and I didn’t want to miss either one of them. So rather than choosing the theme and finding courses to match it, this time I chose the theme based on the courses I wanted to take. The courses are Foundations of Business Strategy and Social Psychology. The theme I’ve devised to fit these two courses I’m calling Inside an Organization. For the next ten weeks or so I’ll be focusing on decision-making and interpersonal relationships within businesses.
The next theme I’m gearing up to tackle is Data Analysis. Math-heavy courses require the biggest time commitment, so I’m waiting to start this unit until my schedule is a bit clearer. When learning new math skills, you can forget about multi-tasking; you can’t watch a course video while folding laundry or getting ready for work. Since many data analysis courses are available through paid providers like Lynda, Udemi, and Udacity, I’m also planning to use that unit to try to answer the question of whether you should pay for online courses.
What about the MBA network?
It has been pointed out to me on more than one occasion that part of what you pay for in an MBA degree program is the exceedingly valuable MBA network. I realize that this is a big gap in my self-administered course of study, and I’ve been working hard to close it. In future posts I will share some of the solutions I find most promising. I’ll also reflect on my experience forming virtual study groups, using MOOC discussion forums for networking, and pursuing virtual internship opportunities.
Continuing Innovation
Through my online studies, I’ve become very interested in how post-secondary education is changing. I’ll continue my series of thought pieces on the business opportunities related to MOOCs. I’m also planning to cover some of the best startups offering services for MOOC students and other online learners. Some of these are already listed on my Resources page. I’ve come across others and am finding new and better ways to use the services I’ve already identified. Finally, I’d like to spend a post or two on the opportunities for online learning in the developing world. While some people have dismissed MOOCs due to their early failure to attract large numbers of students from underserved populations, I think it’s far too early to discount the incredible potential for this method of learning for students without access to traditional university education.
As you can see, this is going to be a busy semester! I’m looking forward to continuing the conversation, so keep your comments and messages coming. And to those of you who are studying alongside me, keep up the good work!
