And so it begins...

As a deep thinker and creative writer, in the back of my mind I always wanted to write a blog. I've even made a couple of attempts, but each time the overwhelming thought of having to come up with something important enough to share with the world stalled me. Today I find myself back here again, starting a blog but this time it is different --- I have to write a blog for a course assignment.

In an effort to overcome my angst, this time I plan on just writing for me.  If the world wants to weigh in or critically review my ideas - so be it.  For the next 8 weeks, I am opening up my mind to sharing my perspective and bracing myself for any backlash that may occur.

And so who am I and why do my thoughts matter?

 
My name is Marie E. Arriaga and for the past 4 1/2 years I have been on an educational journey to discover not only the depth of my passion for teaching and social change, but also to realize my dream of making a difference in my community.

I believe that educational outreach is the key to self-directed lifelong learning.  For many adults in my community, the K-12 experience and subsequent focus of college on being a path to riches has left many disengaged with the process of learning.  This blog is not intended for teachers, the world of academia, media, or even prospective employers.  This blog is intended to lift anyone up that happens on by.  If I can brighten your day for even a moment and cause you to consider chasing your dreams, then my objective has been fulfilled.

What does 4E Educational Outreach stand for? 

One might wonder...what does 4E Educational Outreach stand for.  Well as mentioned earlier, my concept of educational outreach is a starting point for lifelong learning.  For many it is the starting block that is the hardest hurdle to overcome.  It's easy to suggest to someone that they should go back to school and set themselves up on a new career path, but it is harder to understand deep set barriers when the person you are trying to help doesn't even know the barriers exist in the first place.

The 1st E stands for EDUCATE.  By using the term educate I propose that as community members it is important to first realize that an educational opportunity exists.

The 2nd E stands for ENLIGHTEN.  After realizing that an opportunity exists, it is then my responsibility to enlighten those around me and provide justification as to why it is too important to not let the opportunity pass by without action.

The 3rd E stands for EMPOWER.  This is my favorite part....the chance to give learners the strength to utilize the given opportunity for further personal growth and exploration.

The 4th E stands for ENCOURAGE.  Lastly everyone needs someone to cheer them on.  The task sounds easy, but when someone is stuck in a rut you have to stay committed to helping them get through it.  It's not always easy, but it is always rewarding.

So here I am world.  My ideas are finally out of my head and on trial for global community  engagement forum.  The conversation has begun.  Are you ready to share your ideas as well?