Middle School
My social studies teacher taught us the topic of World War I. I had to present how the assassination of Franz Ferdinand started World War I. I learned the information by reading a Time-Life book and summarizing the article for the class. I was learning history as part of our curriculum.
College
I took a lot of computer programming classes, taught by professors in the computer science department. I learned the information by taking copious notes, practicing on my own (by completing assigned programming projects), and using the text book as a reference. For tests, I would find an empty classroom, review my notes, and lecture myself aloud while drawing on the whiteboard. I was learning this skill as part of my degree requirement because I wanted to be a computer programmer.
Professional
Earlier this year, my company required me to review and re-certify our business conduct guidelines. There are no instructors: HR sent a link to an online course. First, the course directed me to read the guidelines. Then, it presented several topics and shared real-life scenarios about each topic. Each scenario was broken up into several short videos; after each video, the course asked if the characters did the right thing or what they should have done in that situation. I learned a lot because it was personal and engaging. I had to think how to respond even though I don’t encounter those situations in my job. I learned these company policies in order to represent the company properly and legally, and work more effectively with colleagues and clients.
Mea's portfolio 