Week 2
(U-Learning)
Ubiquitous Learning Reflection

Learning has been associated with schools or colleges. For centuries traditional teachings or learning had been confined to four walls which is the school itself. Today and for past couple or so decades, learning has had a facelift. Learning outside of the traditional in person school setting was highlighted during COVID-19 when all school- at least in the US was switched to online platforms or virtual learning. During this time, after the initial learning curve of maneuvering online learning, most individuals enjoyed learning in a non-traditional way. It brought to light that U-learning can be just as an educational and dynamic compared to in person learning. Learning has numerous gateways, based on one’s own preferred style. Specific learning paths maybe more beneficial to them. 

I practice U-learning in three different settings as I have three different jobs. The first way I use U-learning is with my patients. I have made QR codes that link to YouTube videos depicting post-operative care for dental procedures or surgeries. I also use these short videos to demonstrate proper oral hygiene. Another way I use U-learning is by creating short videos for dental students for proper techniques on injections, dental procedures and more. My students have access to these videos constantly rather than just having access to information at school. Lastly, I use U-learning to Teach CPR. As an American Heart Association CPR/BLS instructor presenting material via video instruction and in person, hands on training, the video segments can be done online and a-synchronously. Learning has evolved to different modalities. 

A perfect example of U-learning was during the pandemic. I was right in the middle of sciences classes that required labs such as anesthesia, anatomy of the head and neck, ect. Rather than completely halting the classes, the material that wasn’t directly hands on was lectured online method. Many of my supervising doctors provided material via video which helped by re-watching the material. Learning broke out of the four walls of the college and at my fingertips.