S5 E4: Why Virtual Learning's Worth Exploring

In today’s episode I’m going to chat with you about the awesomeness of virtual learning in the horse world. This episode is inspired in part by Ivy sharing her experience in last week’s episode and just how integral Michelle’s remote support has been to Swagger and Ivy’s journey and progress. But it’s also inspired by my own experiences with the virtual learning landscape, and by conversations I’ve had with a few people who groan at the prospect… And if, you’ve had to do eLearns for your job, then um, let me just say that these can be, uh, dry, and um, uninspiring. So please, please don’t rate your virtual learning experience based on those alone! If you are groaning at me suggesting more screen time, I know so many people have screen-fatigue, particularly off the back of Covid and due to the way some jobs now operate, I’m not immune from this at all, but if you can stand to, bear with me while I talk through why virtual or remote learning is awesome and why it’s not actually always about the screen. Spoiler alert, you’re listening to me right now, learning, sans screen. I want to nudge you up-front to say that you’re actually likely already engaging in enjoyable, helpful, virtual learning - most likely the free stuff if not paid. Like me, you’re a good chance to have watched things on YouTube, see things on social media, read blog posts, and I mean, you’re listening to this podcast. You’re doing it already! Today, I’m talking more about the paid virtual learning opportunities that exist. I’m going to start with talking about my experience as a learner, then expand on what online learning can do for you. Then I’m going to switch and talk about my experience as an educator and coach and what it’s like from that perspective – which will also explore why the benefits for me and other coaches are benefits for you too. In this episode we discuss: 1:24 - episode introduction 3:00 - you’re already doing it 4:01 - my experiences as a learner with remote/virtual learning 5:13 - the challenge of being so far away 7:28 - the variety of online learning delivery methods 8:47 - horses get to stay home 9:58 - loving virtual learning despite technology not being ‘my first language’ 10:49 - making new friends 12:54 - it’s inclusive for me 14:22 - benefits of remote/virtual learning for you & some of the challenges with a conventional format 18:28 - it’s not always about the screen 22:06 - consuming on your time, in your location 23:44 - learning remotely is not new here in Australia 25:04 - learning the tech is like learning anything 26:18 - why virtual learning is great as an educator with a micro-business & why that makes it great for you too, starting with some of my history to give context 31:27 - the overheads, the real costs 33:15 - what virtual learning offers us 36:02 - in-person learning is also awesome 36:56 - ask super nicely 38:29 - after listening 40:14 - episode wrap-up & what’s on next week Links mentioned this episode: Sign-up to our email list Abbey's Run Equestrian website Abbey's Run Equestrian on Facebook Thank you to Matthew Bliss for podcast production & consultation. If you'd like him to help with your podcast, get in touch by email at [email protected]