MA in Translation: Victoria’s experience

I entered the world of the 'online learning environment' (OLE) with some trepidation back in January 2009. Although I had already caught on to the world of computers and internet through my work, (having been born a little too early to have used such things at school and as an undergraduate at Bristol!) the world of Blackboard seemed a rather scary prospect.

Nonetheless, I need not have worried. Before the course started, we had some time to familiarise ourselves with Blackboard, how to navigate between the discussion boards and assignment sections for each module.

The discussion board and the process of 'submitting' comments was facilitated by the re-assuring knowledge that I could always email Adrienne Mason, the course leader, or Kate Withers, the course administrator. Of course, each module has a course tutor, and they are always on hand - or rather, on the end of an email.

Being able to ask for advice, without being made to feel a nuisance, has been invaluable and greatly appreciated. It is always possible actually to speak to someone for advice and support, too! I was struggling on how to approach a given assignment and voilà! – there was the offer of a telephone call. By the end of this call, I felt much happier on how to approach the task.

An abundance of information was available to read on Blackboard, and copious amounts of advice was given on where we could begin in terms of reading, before we had to start actually producing work for tasks set, and once the course was underway.

Combining the demands of my job with those of being a student with deadlines again has only been feasible due to the understanding approach I have received from Bristol in my first half year of study, in particular from Adrienne.

However, contact with the other students on the course is crucial. One is never ‘alone’, sitting at one’s desk at home! Discussion boards are good forums for placing worries and queries. Often one will find that others feel exactly the same way, and someone will have an answer to a question. Students swap email addresses and telephone numbers, and I would really encourage future students to do the same.

The importance of being in touch with fellow students cannot be underestimated.

Have courage! Go forward into the world of Blackboard – there’s always someone there, should you need them.