Learning to Golf via the Internet: The Final Result (in video)

I've done some research and some practice, and although I've made progress, I'm not quite ready for the Women's PGA Tour just yet. I better keep my day job! Check out the video to see how it went.

Learning to Golf via the Internet: Final Reflections

When I was assigned the “Networked Learning Project, I figured that I always wanted to learn how to play golf, so this would be the perfect opportunity. I immediately set up a folder in Google Docs and saved links to videos on YouTube. After watching the videos, I practiced in my backyard. (Luckily I didn’t hit the ball very far!) By far the most useful technological tool was the Ubersense app which allowed me to compare my swing with that of professionals. I was improving! I have to admit thought, that it was my son who actually helped me the most. He watched me practice a few times and immediately saw what I needed to do. He gave me two tips to improve my swing and they worked! As helpful as the Internet was, I don’t think it will replace human interaction. (That’s good to know for all of us teachers!)

So overall, this project taught me a little bit about golf but a lot about technology. I used the blog I created. I categorized and saved information on Google Drive. I watched tutorials in order to learn how to edit videos on iMovie and even how to add music. (I have to say iMovie is pretty awesome!)  For the first time, I uploaded videos to YouTube. There were a few glitches along the way and some things seemed to take forever, but the theme of the class (which I keep referring back to) seems to be persistence and flexibility.

I still have a lot to learn about both golf and technology, but for now I think I’ll leave all of my technological tools behind and go play 9 holes!

Networked Learning Project: Progress - Week 3!

I’ve been reviewing videos and practicing my golf swing. The video "Beginner Golf Guide - Driving Basics Video" by Golf Info Guide.com was informative. The Golf Channel has beginner videos as well that provide useful tips. Watching Youtube videos of various golf swings has helped. I also tested an app called “Ubersense" which was recommended by Stephanie in one of our class discussions. The app is extremely helpful. It allows the user to make a video, analyze it in slow motion, annotate it, and compare the technique to a pro's. It’s very cool and I’m looking forward to using it not only for my own benefit, but as a swimming and diving coach in the fall. I’ve used “Slo-Pro” in the past to coach diving, but this app has more features that will be helpful.

Networked Learning: Let the Games Begin

Learning to Golf: How should I go about it?

I’ve been thinking about the steps I need to take to learn to play golf. My first thought was that I should get some cute golf clothes.  

Just kidding! I just wanted to test out posting a screen shot because I think they're pretty cool! Plus, I am supposed to be learning a new skill for this project and I am already quite proficient at online shopping!

What I’ve really done so far is find some "learn to golf" videos. I’ve located several by doing a google search and I have saved them in a folder on google drive. I watched the British Open on TV this weekend for inspiration. Actually, the winner, Rory McIlroy said that as he’s making shots, the mantra he repeats to himself is “process.” By studying videos and reading tips, I hope to learn the process. (Although I KNOW it’s not that easy!)  I also am looking for a "Learn to Golf" community but so far I haven't found any that seem to be helpful for my needs at this time. However, I will keep that in mind.  

After watching the videos, I’m going to go outside and practice! I know now that the first two things I need to work on are the grip and my stance. I’m looking forward to it!

Networked Learning Project or How I Plan to Prepare for the Women's PGA Tour

   In my many roles in life, I get the chance to be a teacher, but I also have many opportunities to be a student. Besides what I've learned through my formal education, some of the things I've learned are how to cook, to balance schedules in a family of eight, to operate the snow blower, and thanks to my daughters, what NOT to wear. I've always believed that we all need to be lifetime learners, so I'm looking forward to the opportunity to use the Internet to teach me something. After raising six kids, I finally have some free time on my hands. I've decided that what I really want to learn is how to play golf (since it is considered a "leisure" sport after all.)
     I've played golf a few times but I'm so terrible that it's embarrassing. The worst part for me is driving the ball off the tee. If it was supposed to stay on the ground or go into a pond, I'd be pretty good. However, I'm told that's not how it works. Any one of the bad golf shots in the following video could be mine:

I'm looking forward to developing a drive that is straight, long, and more importantly, airborne. If I'm successful, and if I can really use the Internet to learn to golf, who knows what's next? The Women's PGA Tour? Let's set the bar high!