Welcome,

     I’m a first generation Somali-Canadian. I’m studying International Development Studies, completing a specialist degree. Lately, I have been attempting to broaden my horizons in order to gain new skills and discover new passions. I wish to learn a handful of languages, the list is limitless. I believe language is the gateway to one's culture. I desperately want to gain worldly experience as an active learner. I hope in five years I can be fluent in Arabic, french, Latin, Italian and of course Somali. In regards to hobbies, II currently dabbled into spoken word poetry, fashion sewing, various sports and so forth. I’m not an expert in anything in specific, nor harbor a certain talent. Although, I’m secretly hoping I’ll tap into a miraculous near genius trait. However for the moment, I progress.

     I took this course, to explore another branch of development. It is interesting to see the various solutions and issues that are associated with development. One incentive to join this course is because Leslie Chan is the instructor. I enjoyed IDSA01 because of Mr. Chan’s teaching style. I’m excited to learn more about the power of technological influences. I joined the course two week’s late, so I worry a tad bit about my final performance. However, after attending the third lecture I was impressed with the interactive approach to learning. I look forward to the weeks ahead.

     I hope to continue to learn more about current media outlets and technology within the course. My favorite part of IDSB10 is the tutorials. I have always wanted to learn how certain media formats operate. I feel it is a substantial skill for any career or personal endeavors. Theory can only take an individual so far. I feel at times, university institutions lack practical learning opportunities. Especially, in regards to IDSB10 it is easier to expand as a learner if we are able to gain experience on these pressing technologies. Thus encompassing the ideology of an active learner. I hope to bring a different perspective to class discussions, by drawing from personal experience and heritage influences. 

Thank you, 

Farhia Hirad