My personal learning environment is modeled after a mandala because I wanted to create a space that was harmonious. I strive to find balance and rhythm in my learning environment. My creative process usually starts out as a chaotic brainstorming session as I scribble ideas on paper. I try to get as many ideas out as possible and then sift through and organize them into something that makes sense. The faint background image of a hand-drawn mandala represents my process of brainstorming with pen and paper and also my interest in drawing and creating art with traditional materials. My ideal workspace is comfortable, free of distractions and highly caffeinated. I find it hard to concentrate in a messy space, so I like to clean and organize my room before I do homework. I chose simple icons that all the same size and arranged in a circular pattern to symbolize order and organization.
I toyed with the idea of creating an analog PLE representation, but then I realized that so much of my learning involves my computer and the Internet, so it more made sense to represent it digitally. The icons I chose are grouped into three main sections; the center representing my physical home environment, the second layer is work/school, and the outer ring is my virtual “third space.”
My home is filled with plants both inside and out and I find inspiration in nature. I find myself taking walks to clear my head when I am stressed or lacking motivation. I included the cat icons because my two cats keep me company while I’m studying. I am an extroverted introvert, so I enjoy being social, but I need quiet time alone to recharge.
Much of my learning happens at the University of Oregon campus, at the library and coffee shops. The car icon represents my long commute to school. I try to make this time productive by listening to the news or podcasts. I included an airplane because I love traveling and I learn so much when I travel. The waitress icon represents my current job, where I have learned interpersonal skills. Swimming is my favorite form of exercise because it helps me relieve stress and recharge. The third space circle is filled with the main computer apps I use. I realized that there is a lot of overlap in my PLE and many of the icons could be placed in more than one layer. The dotted lines represent fluidity, and that the boundaries between my personal, work/school and third space are often blurred.