Jasmin Filz

Tell us about you, why you opted for a career in education and why you chose to study with Tes Institute?

I’m passionate about learning; teaching has always been my calling. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing how my work as a teacher can inspire and support students in their educational journeys. My love for learning and self-improvement has driven me to seek new ways to enhance my skills and knowledge continually.

Living in Germany, however, posed a challenge when I wanted to pursue a Master’s degree in education, as most universities require a high level of German proficiency (at least C1). Fortunately, I discovered Tes Institute, which offers a Master’s in Education with Pedagogy online through its partnership with the University of East London (UEL). This programme allows me to study flexibly and continue my professional growth, all while maintaining the high standards of an accredited UK university.

How would you describe the quality of the teaching and the learning resources provided by Tes Institute?

The teaching and learning resources provided by Tes Institute have been immensely beneficial throughout my studies. The course materials are well-structured, allowing me to easily navigate my study time and revisit lectures as needed. Numerous suggested references support my learning at every step, and the University of East London’s library is straightforward and user-friendly. Additionally, the MA team were highly supportive and always available for a quick check-in or discussion, which makes the learning experience even more enriching.

Were you familiar with Tes before you applied? If so, what did you use Tes for before? If not, what was it about the Tes Institute that stood out for you?

I was previously familiar with Tes primarily as a platform for checking job postings in education. However, I was unaware of the educational programmes offered by Tes Institute until I began searching for a flexible Master’s programme. What stood out to me was the opportunity to pursue a Master’s in education online, combined with the strong affiliation with the University of East London, which made it an appealing choice for advancing my career while managing my current commitments.

How did you find the application process?

When I applied for the MA programme, there was a brief transition period due to the recent move to a new system for managing applications. This change caused some initial confusion, as I received conflicting emails—one indicating that I did not qualify and another confirming my acceptance. Fortunately, the director of the MA programme was very supportive and resolved the issue promptly. I was grateful for their assistance ensuring that all my legal requirements and qualifications were correctly processed.

What are your plans for the future, and how has this qualification positioned you to achieve your professional development and career goals?

I was thrilled to receive confirmation that I passed all the MA modules, and I believe this qualification will significantly enhance my career prospects. It has provided me with a solid foundation to accelerate my professional development, giving me an edge and added credibility in the field of education.

I am contemplating the next steps regarding my current employment. Meanwhile, I am developing a blog site (www.jazbeyondteaching.com), where I plan to share my educational journey, unique insights into teaching, education tips and personal experiences once it's live. The Master’s in education has equipped me with the expertise to offer valuable online advice and insights to a broader audience. Additionally, I will continue my German studies, as proficiency in the language will be beneficial for navigating the education field in this region.

How did the flexibility of the course (e.g., online learning, part-time/full-time options) fit into your professional and personal life?

I greatly appreciated the flexibility of online learning provided by the course. Balancing a full-time job with my personal life was challenging, but with effective time management and staying updated with lectures and guidance from the MA team, I found it manageable. This flexibility made it easier to navigate my responsibilities and complete the programme successfully, for which I'm very grateful.

Can you share an example of a particular module or assignment that had a significant impact on your teaching practice?

All the modules in the programme had a significant impact on my teaching practice, but the applied project was particularly instrumental. Through this project, I developed a concept that I believe will positively influence educators' perspectives on project-based learning. Additionally, I felt privileged and excited to learn that my dissertation has the potential to be published in an educational journal. This opportunity validates my work and motivates me to continue exploring innovative approaches in education.

How has your perspective on education or your teaching practice changed since completing the course?

Since completing the course, my perspective on education has evolved significantly. I now approach teaching with a deeper understanding of the theoretical frameworks and practical strategies that underpin effective educational practices. I've become more confident in experimenting with new methodologies and tailoring my practice to meet my students' diverse needs. Additionally, the course has broadened my view on the role of education research, inspiring me to stay engaged with current trends and contribute to the field through practice.

Did you connect with other learners during the course, and if so, how has this peer network benefited you professionally?

Yes, I connected with several fellow learners throughout the course during lectures and study group meetings. We also had team chats that facilitated ongoing communication and support. Engaging with my peers was incredibly beneficial; hearing about their experiences and challenges made me realise we were all navigating similar paths. This shared understanding fostered a sense of camaraderie and provided valuable insights into different approaches and solutions. The peer network offered support and encouragement and enriched my learning experience by exposing me to diverse perspectives and strategies.

What do you enjoy most about the course?

What I enjoyed most about the course was its exceptional flexibility. The option to attend live lectures when my schedule allowed was invaluable, but I also appreciated being able to access recorded lectures if I missed a session. This on-demand access meant I could revisit and review material as needed, ensuring I fully understood the content. Additionally, the well-organised schedule, including weekly updates on meetings and lectures, helped me stay on track and manage my time effectively. This structured yet flexible approach allowed me to balance my studies with my professional and personal commitments, making the learning experience enjoyable and manageable.

What types of support did you receive as a Tes Institute learner and how has this helped you progress?

I received significant support from the MA team, which was instrumental in my progress. Their assistance was evident in various ways: they provided timely and clear guidance on navigating the course, addressed any issues promptly and offered constructive feedback on assignments. The team's support also extended to resolving any confusion from transitioning to a new system, ensuring that all my requirements were met smoothly. Their proactive and supportive approach helped me stay on track and fostered a positive learning environment that contributed greatly to my overall success in the programme.

What would you tell another person who is thinking of applying for this course?

If someone is considering applying for this course, I would strongly encourage them to take the leap and submit their application. The programme offers a unique and rewarding learning experience that can significantly enhance your professional skills and knowledge. While the course can be challenging, it's designed to be manageable with the proper support. The MA team were exceptionally supportive and dedicated to helping students succeed, providing valuable guidance and assistance throughout the programme. The flexibility of the course also allows you to balance your studies with other commitments. Overall, the effort you invest will be well worth it, leading to personal and professional growth you won't regret. It’s a transformative opportunity that can open doors to new career possibilities and deeper insights into your field.

How would you sum up your experience in a sentence?

My experience with the course has been incredibly rewarding, offering flexible learning, exceptional support and valuable insights that have significantly enhanced my teaching practice and professional development.

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