By Ping Xuan (Learning Designer Intern)
Having been given the opportunity to work for Ottodot as a Learning Designer Intern for a little more than two months had been a short but meaningful experience for me.
Entering this internship fresh and green with no prior skills or knowledge about the responsibilities of a learning designer, it was like stepping into a whole new world. The process of planning lessons to personally conducting online lessons had been a learning journey.
Throughout this journey, I had learned how to draft up lesson plans, create kids-friendly learning materials, conduct and handle online classes via Zoom, and convert the classes to viable journeys on the Ottodot platform. I had thoroughly enjoyed the planning process of the classes and the materials because it enabled me to be as creative as possible. Besides, it was exciting to be able to exchange ideas with other learning designers.
How can I make this class or topic interesting for the students? What are engaging or fun? Am I too dull for the kids? Am I a good teacher?
These were the thoughts that regularly crossed my mind during my planning sessions, as well as before and after my classes. I remember the discontentment and insecurity I had with myself after my first class. I constantly doubted myself on my ability to teach, my engagement level, and my classroom management. However, with the encouragement and reassurance from my colleagues, I managed to pull myself out from such critical thoughts and strive to continuously improve myself as an individual, teammate, teacher, and learning designer.
Now, after four classes, I had managed to find a system and plan that worked best for me. The feedback and help I had received from my colleagues had also boosted my confidence in my work considerably. Without their guidance, I would not be able to experience and done up numerous lesson plans, journeys, and classes.
Of course, not to forget all the precious students whom I had taught:
The students’ enthusiasm and energy have given me strength. Their willingness and engagement in the classes have tremendously boosted my confidence and spirit. I hope that my classes will be able to help the students learn better, just like how they have encouraged me to become a better tutor.
In addition, I love that Wong Lei and Le Yi consistently encouraged the interns to be free and open with our ideas. It created an open and non-judgmental space for us to be able to voice out opinions and improve on our ideas. Furthermore, there were workshops and sharing sessions initiated by Wong Lei and Le Yi, which allowed all of us to share and learn from one another.
For example, one workshop that had been held is Introduction to Graphic Design by Le Yi. This workshop has given me more insight into the basics of graphic design, rules of graphic design, and the message different types of design convey. The increased understanding of graphic design has aided me in selecting appropriate designs, colors and typography for my class slides and materials.
With such a supportive working environment, I was able to gain a lot in my role as a learning designer, as well as attained other valuable skills and knowledge such as managing a class, interpersonal skills, and understanding the role of a UX/UI designer. These are all knowledge, technical and soft skills I can bring forward to my school works, presentations, events, and future workplace.
I am thankful to have the opportunity to be part of the Ottodot team. My time here has been incredible, enriching, and inspiring. I will continue to treasure the remaining time I have as an intern here.
Cheers!:)
