Hiatus
I have always tried to offer as much of myself as I could through this service and others in my work and in my own time. It has never been enough, which was made clear to me today, but I am tired and don't have anything more to give.Accordingly, I am placing this newsletter and website on hiatus for an indefinite period. I will be back when I'm back.
Please know that I have always valued and held in the highest esteem the work that all of you are doing to try to make things better, especially for the young. My dedication toward your objectives, toward social justice and opportunity, toward a better life for all, is never wavering, will never waver.
It is time for a darkening of the light as I retreat and think about what I am going to do and how I am going to do it, but know that the light will never flicker and never fade. I wish you well in your endeavours, and I will be back to walk the long hard road alongside you.
-- Stephen
Update: Hiatus FAQ
Stephen Downes, Stephen's Web, March 6, 2006. [Link] [Tags: Newsletters, Gaming] [Previous][Next]
Comments
Re: Hiatus
I always look forward to my OLDaily and have learned so much from what you have ventured forth to find and share. Good luck and take care! faithful reader in Oklahoma [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
I always look forward to my OLDaily and have learned so much from what you have ventured forth to find and share. Good luck and take care! faithful reader in Oklahoma [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Hi Stephen, With sadness, I read your commentary. I have subscribed to your newsletter for several years and have thoroughly enjoyed the articles that you have referenced and your insightful comments. My research focuses on converging technologies in ways that enable the delivery of the distance-learning experience. Your newsletter has been an invaluable source of support and stimulation. I will certainly miss reading your commentary. Best wishes. Rest. Please come back soon. Respectfully yours, Dr. Rick Lillie California State University, San Bernardino Email: rlillie@csusb.edu [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, I certainly empathize with your feelings and please understand the impact that you have on many of your readers. *You* are the light and I look forward to your email each and every day to see what you have illuminated for me that day. Wander off, regroup, and let us know how you are doing. May your light never flicker nor waver. Sincerely, Ben Ben Watson, VP of Collaboration Thomson NETg ben.watson@thomson.com [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Dear Stephen It is a beautiful morning here in Canberra, Australia. It is the kind of morning that would appeal to your keen photographer's eye. Yor insight has transformed my thinking and my understanding of what is possible through the exercise of imagination and profound philosophical clarity. I hope that the next stage in your remarkable journey sees you receiving as well as giving enormous energy. "Do not go gentle into that good night ..." Best wishes Keith [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, Your post today caught me by surprise. I must admit I was a bit saddened by the news. You are truly a pioneer among educators and have provided us all with a valuable service that hundreds of people will sincerely miss. I wish you the best and look forward to your return in whatever form it takes. [heavy sigh] Chris [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
To everything there is a season. My your hiatus ignite the spark for what comes next. I think you are wise to recognize the need for this "making of space." I think it is easy to ignore - and ignore at our peril. If I can be of any support, sounding board, assistance or just beaming quiet energy your way, you know you can count on me. Nancy White Seattle [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Maybe that means you'll have some time for a beer together? Perhaps the Pumphouse? Hang in there, Stephen. Cheers; Harold Jarche [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Hi Stephen, As others have noted, your commentary and thoughts will be missed. I can see how pressure and criticism can take the joy from a "volunteer" type of activity (my experience with elearnspace). I think it is important for readers of bloggers (those who write in transparent places!) to offer support to dull the voice of criticism. Posting a thought in a public forum can serve as a lightening rod for negative feedback (there is a difference between disagreement and outright rudeness). All the best Stephen - please enjoy your well deserved space. If I can be of any assistance, please do not hesistate to make contact. George Siemens [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
OLDaily has been my one contant source of inspiration in this field, even as many others have come and gone. I'm sure you didn't take this decision lightly, but those of us out here are selfishly hoping the hiatus isn't too long. Good luck with your reflection and wayfinding in the coming weeks and months. Don't be a stranger. [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen: I'll miss the daily hit that helps put things in perspective. I've learned much from and through OLDaily - your comments, the great resources and community you have pulled together. Thanks for the dedication. Enjoy your hiatus but do come back. John Burns Learning Consultant Canadian Tire Corporation [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, I have been in a similar place and have every sympathy, although there seems to be much unsaid. Your impact on the level and quality of discourse about learning, technology, and many other things has been immeasurable. You have been a true pioneer. If anyone could be characterized as the bootstrap which we have all pulled ourselves up, you surely can. Best wishes for whatever is next. I am sure your intelligence, energy and dedication will bear just as much fruit in whatever comes next. With sincere regards David Carter-Tod [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
In the Name of God, the Beneficent, the Merciful Blessings to you and your wife as you undergo a rejuvenation. Know that you have meant much to others all over the world and there are many who have silently stood shoulder to shoulder with you... If it means anything, your work has not been in vain. In peace Zaynab [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, As others have said, you have made a great impact on the field and I have looked forward to reading your daily postings (and the photos). I don't know any of the background to your decision, but I wish you well on the next stage of your life's journey. I am quite sure that, with your intellect and perception, you will navigate your way with great success. All the best, Susan Trigg [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Hi Stephen: Your unique take on teaching, learning, and technology will be much missed. I have enjoyed and benefited from OLDaily since you started it, and have introduced many others to it including 5 years of students in my online class (for an MDE programme). Thank you very much for your dedication and generosity in sharing your work and ideas. Sincerely, Jane E. Brindley University of Windsor [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stee-ruth Stephen!! Well, looking on the bright side from this end, at least the late adopters around me now have a chance to catch up with your prolific work. Thanks for everything you have taught me. Leigh Blackall Dunedin, New Zealand. [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
It's an astonishing news I read today... I respect your decision because I was allways wondering HOW did you managed to give us so much, for so long, with so much fidelity. I just hope you'll be able to come back, with a better solution for you and all of us. Could we help ? Isn't it possible to make this site (and newsletter) a more collective effort ?? Thanks Stephen, and take care. I'll miss your daily input. Gilles Beauchamp [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, I was very sad and shocked to read your hiatus but respectful of your space and personal needs. As much as I struggle to become an active blogger I can only imagine what it takes to produce as much work as you have given to us all. A major part of the research in my doctoral studies has been discovered through OLDaily and I am ever grateful for this gift you have shared. Be well and find what you seek, and I would hope to hear of your return in some way when and if that is part of the future. Peace, Wayne Batchelder [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen A click to access the usual insites and what's this...the preverbial blank... a moment of being literally ripped open, a moment of reflection, something I talk contiually about in my courses,now what will 'I' do, so let's personalize what others choose for themselves as if it was mine to do... Stephen visit the places you've been if only in your memory, sit on that rock and contemplate,reflect, get a hold of Stephen again. We will all survive and the world will exist in spite of our feelings about it... I don't want to though,and this is totally amazing for me to articulate,I will miss the you I think you are... Reflect, and maybe we will meet again on this cosmic journey... phil simons Porterville College Porterville California [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen A click to access the usual insites and what's this...the preverbial blank... a moment of being literally ripped open, a moment of reflection, something I talk continualy about in my courses,now what will 'I' do, so let's personalize what others choose for themselves as if it were mine to do... Stephen visit the places you've been if only in your memory, sit on that rock and contemplate,reflect, get a hold of Stephen again. We will all survive and the world will exist in spite of our feelings about it... I don't want to though,and this is totally amazing for me to articulate,I will miss the you I think you are... Reflect, and maybe we will meet again on this cosmic journey... phil simons Porterville College Porterville California [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stee-ruth Stephen!! Well, looking on the bright side from this end, at least the late adopters around me now have a chance to catch up with your prolific work. Thanks for everything you have taught me. Leigh Blackall Dunedin, New Zealand. [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Dear Stephen. Firstly, many many thanks for the wonderful work and tireless commitment you have contributed to the field. I really hope others will join me in thanking you publicly here, because I think that you are such an essential part of the community that unfortunately, we often take you for granted. It's so easy to read your writing, to listen to you talk, and think, but of course... but the stark truth is that you are articulating what is best and most inspirational in education today, and you are giving a voice and substance to the direction many of us want to be taking - and more importantly, you are tireless in your championing and representation of learners, and in the power and potential of education to make the world a better, more interesting and happier place. The work that you have done has been more than enough of a contribution for any individual (although don't think that let's you off the hook - it doesn't work like that). The impact that you have had, right across the world, is something that you might find difficult to judge. Let me assure you however it is a significant, tangible and lasting contribution. Josie Fraser [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
In your light we see light. You brightened nearly every day with your postings. My life will just not be the same without a daily dose of Downes. Best wishes in whatever endeavors are ahead. It's time for you to be thinking about Number 1 for a while. CJ Ansorge University of Nebraska Lincoln, Nebraska [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, It is a dark time, but that's when new life germinates. Thank you so much for all your time and effort. Without your daily newsletters, I would not have learned about technology and education, - which I believe is central to the future of education. Your newsletter was my inspiration and the source of the connections I began making, with people, ideas, and other sources focussed on edtech. You were an important part of my Ph.D. research. Please take care of yourself, and regenerate. Your energy is wonderful. Joan Vinall-Cox [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, It is a dark time, but that's when new life germinates. Thank you so much for all your time and effort. Without your daily newsletters, I would not have learned about technology and education, - which I believe is central to the future of education. Your newsletter was my inspiration and the source of the connections I began making, with people, ideas, and other sources focussed on edtech. You were an important part of my Ph.D. research. Please take care of yourself, and regenerate. Your energy is wonderful. Joan Vinall-Cox [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Merci Stephen, Ever since I discovered your newsletter, it was an incomparable source of information, cues and opinions that I'll certainly miss. I wish you a good "hiatus", a positive reflexion time and I join my word to all others to thank you for your work. For the futur, could we think of a more collective solution ? something that would be less on the shoulders of one ? Anyway, your OLDaily will stay as a model ! [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Dear Stephen. Firstly, many many thanks for the wonderful work and tireless commitment you have contributed to the field. I really hope others will join me in thanking you publicly here, because I think that you are such an essential part of the community that unfortunately, we often take you for granted. It's so easy to read your writing, to listen to you talk, and think, but of course... but the stark truth is that you are articulating what is best and most inspirational in education today, and you are giving a voice and substance to the direction many of us want to be taking - and more importantly, you are tireless in your championing and representation of learners, and in the power and potential of education to make the world a better, more interesting and happier place. The work that you have done has been more than enough of a contribution for any individual (although don't think that let's you off the hook - it doesn't work like that). The impact that you have had, right across the world, is something that you might find difficult to judge. Let me assure you however it is a significant, tangible and lasting contribution. Josie Fraser [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen - I'll miss your insightful commentaries. Don't go a way permanently - the learning field needs you. [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
There comes a time, my dear friend, when even the camel needs to stop in the desert to have a drink! We WILL miss you - we WILL find each day a little poorer for not having your presence, but perhaps it will spark some of us to be more pro-active and to carry some of the load - to work together and not expect it to be done for us. Whatever it is that has brought you to this point, I hope will resolve itself soon. Thank you for your wise counsel and the wealth of resources you have given to all of us. I don't believe you fully understand the impact your work has had on the global uptake of elearning. Perhaps as has been said, now is the time for us to collectively take up the baton and run with it. There is an International eLearning Community on EdNA just waiting to be used. http://www.groups.edna.edu.au/course/view.php?id=198 Rest well, travel gently, recharge your batteries - and come back to us when you are ready. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Remember - if you ever need a quiet and peaceful retreat, Eumundi will always welcome you. Warm Regards Chris Sutton [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen -- Thank you for always having interesting, thought-provoking links and comments... Enjoy the hiatus... recharge the batteries... and I look forward to your return. -- Chris Lehmann [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
You OlDaily has been a source of inspiration and information. Enjoy your much-needed rest and I do hope you are back, in whatever form suits your needs, in the near future. --Giuliana Colalillo [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
You OLDaily has been a source of inspiration and information. Enjoy your much-needed rest and I do hope you are back, in whatever form suits your needs, in the near future. The learning community, in all its guises, needs to keep hearing from you. Arrivederci (until we see you again), Giuliana Colalillo [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
For two years now, I've made OLDaily part of my daily routine. I shall mourn it and your absence, Stephen, like the departure of a dear friend. Tim Loblaw Calgary, AB [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Hello Stephen, I have benefited from this mailing list the past 2 years. And apart from the occasional comments to let you know 'someone is actually reading what you sent out', I am greatly indebted to your efforts. I hope one day I will receive OLDaily again! Thank you! Cindy [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, you have been a constant resource for so many that it comes as a shock to read your message today. My very best wishes to you on your retreat and hope to see you back soon. Thanks Bill Williams [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, I know its all about me, but what am I going to do for my morning reading. Your topics are both insightful and informative. You will be missed. Your impact globally has been immense, and I think that won't be realised until you are no longer contributing. You will be very missed. Take care and good luck. Kind regards, Julie Fleming Central Queensland University Rockhampton Qld Australia [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
A reader of OLdaily since it began, I'll never forget the day you Skyped me in from Hong Kong to the US (thanks to Cyprien Lomas connecting us) to listen in live on your panel with Phil Long and Alaln Levine. This act encapsulated a lot of your qualities for me :-) So do find your space, recharge, rejuvinate and know that you have created a network of like-minded people who are here and will support you in whatever way you need, when you get to knowing that need and how it can be best fulfilled for you. Just call on us. -- Nick Noakes [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Take care Stephen - you know it is only you who can. Diana [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
I truly appreciate your efforts to keep us linked and informed. You have consistently provided an eclectic environment for thought. Hope that you find the peace you are seeking. Clayton Wright [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Hi Stephen, I can understand the need for a hiatus and I wish you all you deserve for helping so many of us learn and grow. Because of you more and more "educators" are helping people LEARN instead of TEACHING them. Continuous learning is what distinguishes us from plants and animals and OL Daily has helped us move further down the road to being human. If your ever in Quebec City, stop by. We might find a dart board to help organize our thoughts. Kevin Kelly [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, I have enjoyed every minute I've spent with your work, and I'm looking forward to whatever the future brings. It is your passion for justice and thoughtful criticism that has drawn me to your work, and I know you will be back with a vengance--even if in another form. I've always marvelled at the sheer volume of work you generate, so I'm already intimidated by what might happen when you are re-energized. Cheers mate, Rick Schwier [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, Everyone needs a break -- especially someone as prolific as you -- though some of the language in your announcement suggests this may have been prompted for less than ideal reasons. Whatever the background behind your decision, I wish you the best and await your return. You have been an inspiration, and an incredibly valuable guide. When I look back on some of the stuff you were saying around the time I first saw you speak (about four years ago) your message borders on prophetic. I will miss your regular bracing contribution to the discourse. Your passion, energy and perspective cannot be replaced. Brian Lamb [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen; Since I found old daily a few months ago, it's been an amazing source of great information and commentary. I hope that the encouragement here (which is always given too late, isn't it?) will help speed your eventual return. Best wishes! Nathan Garrett [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Thank you for all the energy, passion and insights you have shared with this larger community of educators. I will miss you but am happy as I can see you kicking some pebbles along the path, sitting quietly on the bank of that quick flowing spring stream, taking a deep breath and letting your mind wander. Take your time. Warm vibes from Brazil Barbara (Bee) Dieu [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Hi, Stephen I've added my tribute at my website www.ictineducation, but to save you time here it is: Stephen Downes and I haven't always seen eye to eye, but I've always respected the guy and thinks he's been doing a fantastic job in disseminating information about web 2.0, e-learning 2.0 and related stuff. Now he has announced that he is placing his daily newsletter on hiatus for an indefinite period. I hope Stephen finds what he is looking for, and I wish him well. To make your own comment on Stephen's post, please click on the link above. [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen, I can only echo what everyone here has already said. You have been and are a great teacher, and I will miss your daily push to my own thinking. You've always made me reflect more deeply about these technologies and what they mean for learning, and I really appreciate your vision and consistent effort on behalf of the community. It's obvious you have been struggling of late with your own direction, and I sincerely mean it when I say that I hope your hiatus brings you whatever it is you are needing. And, selfishly, that it will be a short as possible. Be well, Will Richardson [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
At the Edu - blog awards in the chatroom we were discussing the power of Canadians in the blogosphere and in understanding and promoting the changing face of education. Much of that leadership has been because of the paths you have led us to. The best of the world comes to us through you. Be well. Clarence Fisher [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Missing you already. Be well and come back soon. You (and George) are my main sources of info and inspiration. Who else will weave Wittgenstein into a blog? Jamie Billingham [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Stephen I will miss you. You have been an inspiration and I have learned so much from you. Thanks. Wishing you all the best on a well-deserved hiatus. Cheers. Janet Robertson [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Re: Hiatus
Dear Stephen, thanks for the past year I've had the opportunity to interact with you in great memorable events I will never forget. You brought me the idea to leverage the network to bring the best teachers to people who need them the most; one of the greatest teachers ever being you yourself, bringing light to the dark alleys of online learning. If knowledge work kung-fu ever existed, it was you who was the great grandmaster of reflection. All the best. Teemu Arina, Finland [Comment] [Permalink] [Previous][Next]
Your comments remain your property, but in posting them here you agree to license under the same terms as this site (Creative Commons). If your comment is offensive it will be deleted.
Automated Spam-checking is in effect. If you are a registered user you may submit links and other HTML. Anonymous users cannot post links and will have their content screened - certain words are prohibited and your comment will be analyzed to make sure it makes sense.
Copyright 2008 Stephen Downes
Contact: stephen@downes.ca
This work is licensed under a
Creative Commons License.