pandemic pivot – Modcast — Accessibility, Literature, and Mustachios

Pandemic Pivot: A Long Hiatus

It has been a very long while since the Modcast has been active, we know, we know. Ironically, we have gotten together a few times to discuss our direction and schedule, and then these plans just sort of faded away, like the light in Boromir’s eyes after his valiant, redemptive sacrifice. (I’ve been watching LordContinue reading “Pandemic Pivot: A Long Hiatus”

The Importance of Wearing a Mask During a Pandemic: There are Benefits!

A group of people place their hands together, all palms facing outward, as another hand with a paintbrush paints a red heart shape over their hovering hands.

by Richard Ramirez We must remember the benefits of masking as a win/win because we are able to protect ourselves and we can protect each other. We get an opportunity to be heroes to one another. COVID-19 does not discriminate against anyone. An article by Katarina Buchkovska says, the virus does not discriminate and canContinue reading “The Importance of Wearing a Mask During a Pandemic: There are Benefits! “

Hi(atus)

Since we’ve been on our hiatus, I’ve been working towards my Ph.D. in Literature at Oklahoma State University. I’ll admit going into the program I had no expectations, and I honestly had no clue what was in store for me. I was in a new state, I had no friends, no family, and even worseContinue reading “Hi(atus)”

Back to School: Teacher Perspectives No. 3

Line drawings on a blue-lined yellow paper background. Various sketches include: a globe; a whiteboard with the equation e = mc squared; a treble clef; an apple; a soccer ball; musical notes; books; depiction an atom; the comedy and tragedy masks; paintbrushes; a computer mouse; a curved pencil writing 1 +1 equals; the numbers 1, 2, 3; and the letters A, B, C. Source: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resources/blog/visual-timetables-all-ages

If I learned anything from last year is that a lot can happen in such a short time. Recently, I had to manage and learn how to survive an unexpected blizzard in the middle of Texas! Everything can change within a day- the way you live your life, the way you think, and the wayContinue reading “Back to School: Teacher Perspectives No. 3”

Pandemic Pivot: Binge Reading

Forget about Netflix, How About Binge Reading? Most people have heard the term Netflix binge-watching, no doubt, many people turned to streaming and other distracting measures as a means of solace once COVID-19 hit. Some took up baking, others turned to arts and crafts, and still others, or maybe just me, turned to my favoriteContinue reading “Pandemic Pivot: Binge Reading”

Back to School: Teacher Perspectives No. 2

I was disenchanted about heading back to school and what that might mean for me. I teach at the secondary level, and the question about whether kids will be returning or should be is always on my mind. Despite my being initially disgruntled about having to report to campus when all could be accomplished atContinue reading “Back to School: Teacher Perspectives No. 2”

Back to School: Teacher Perspectives No. 1

This 2020-2021 school year has certainly gotten off to an interesting start so far. This pandemic has made everything feel so strange and different. No matter how many years of experience you have behind you, virtual teaching has become a learning process for every teacher. I discussed this with a coworker and we both agreedContinue reading “Back to School: Teacher Perspectives No. 1”

Pandemic Pivot: The Disillusioned

Classical painting: The Disillusioned Medea by Paulus Bor. It depicts a young woman leaning her head on her hand, her elbow propped against a table. She stares distantly, face expressionless.

Now that online classes have begun, I’ve realized why getting an education in a university setting has always appealed to me: education is a collaborative social process.

Pandemic Pivot: Searching for Structure

How do we find structure in chaos?

Pandemic Pivot: Holding on Tight

Black and white photo of two wooden art manikins embracing. Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/vzFTmxTl0DQ

I had just finished a busy week when spring break started – and when cases, shutdowns and cancellations increased exponentially. At first, it was a relief that spring break was extended. I got to take a breather. But as I continued to watch the news and closely monitor Twitter, I realized the breath I wasContinue reading “Pandemic Pivot: Holding on Tight”