Hi. My name is Christie Fisher. I'm a San Diego native. I grew up in Del Mar (I still surf). I went to Torrey Pines high school and Graduated from Brigham Young University with an English and Asian Studies Major.
As for technology I'm what they call a "digital immigrant." I'm trying to embrace the digital age, but it isn't always pretty. I think there were Amish people who got cell phones before I did. However, I am pretty comfortable with word processing and other basic skills and a couple years ago I even got brave and took an HTML class and designed a website. I check my email once a week whether it needs it or not. But I love the internet. I use it to get news, follow the market, do research, and develop lesson plans for my ESL class. I love my Nano, but still haven't figured out how to get podcasts and music downloads. However, I did set up my own wireless networking system at home. So I'm kind of a mixed bag. Don't shoot me but I have a PC. I have an HP laptop with Vista Home. I'm ruined though after our first class. Now I'll have to get a Mac.
I'm at CSUSM because I've heard they have a well respected teacher credentialing program. I'm glad to see the program is dedicated to preparing its teachers to reach all types of students. And to inspire them to serve and play a positive contributing role in society. This is a purpose that particularly resonates with me as an Adult Ed ESL teacher. My class is a melting pot of students from all over the world. It's enlightening to hear their stories and get their perspectives on things. They have varying degrees of education. They often arrive nervous and a little frightened. It's rewarding to see them bond with each other and their confidence grow, to see them get better jobs, obtain citizenship, to be able to take their kids to the doctor's office themselves and explain their problems. I'm currently substitute teaching a Social Justice class at LaCosta Canyon High School this month while the teacher is in Africa, and that's been a very great experience. We're just finishing up a book drive that will raise funds to provide books for children in Africa. The school and community have really rallied around the effort. The students are also very comfortable using technology for presentations and research. So I need this class to both reach them and keep up with them.
