Alison, tell us a bit about your background before Alison.
My background is in education. I taught in a private school for many years, working both in the classroom and on the management team. I decided I needed to take a break from teaching in the classroom as it can get all-consuming. I still enjoyed teaching, so I continued with some private tutoring and tried my hand in a few other avenues.
How did you discover Alison, and what was your experience as a learner?
I came across Alison a few years ago and completed a couple of courses. I am passionate about learning, especially free and equal learning for all. I thoroughly enjoyed those courses and found them well structured.
Why did you pursue the chance to become an Alison Contractor?
Towards the end of the year, I received an email that Alison was looking for publishers. I loved the idea of designing information and putting it on the platform, so I applied.
How did you find the remote Contractor training?
The contractor training was straightforward and next thing I knew, I was completing my first course which was a Diploma in Fashion Design. It was great learning both the content and how to structure it in a user-friendly manner.
Tell us about your work coordinating the translations of Alison’s coronavirus course.
Towards the middle of February, I was approached by Mike Feerick [Alison’s CEO] to help coordinate a project on the coronavirus. Alison was one of the first platforms to get information on the coronavirus to the public. Mike had a vision to translate the course into many languages so people could learn about the virus in their own vernacular. It was rewarding seeing the keen interest of our volunteers to contribute, as well as seeing the various courses come to live on the platform.
What’s the best part of working as an Alison Contractor?
I have thoroughly enjoyed working for Alison and I do not see myself returning to the classroom any time soon. During the pandemic, being able to work from home has been ideal. It kept me occupied and gave me a purpose. It is also mobile. Once the economies around the world open, and there is an internet connection, I can work anywhere in the world.
If you could publish course that would teach the world, or yourself, anything, what would it be?
Everybody is unique and we all like learning about different things. If I could publish a course, I would love to teach people to believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
