Jana Blümel is currently the academic director of the Goethe-Institut Montevideo, the German cultural institute, which promotes knowledge of the German language abroad and fosters international cultural cooperation. Since 2015, among other things, it has been responsible for planning the academic offerings of courses and exams, organizing training for German language teachers, and implementing educational projects.
In the midst of the pandemic, what was it like to defend your thesis online?
Defending my thesis in the midst of a pandemic has certainly been a unique experience. To be honest, I can’t really compare it to an in-person defense, since I have a bachelor’s degree in German Language and Literature and am a German language teacher, and my undergraduate thesis didn’t involve that kind of presentation.
I think that since we were already working remotely, we were pretty used to the format and video conferences. That’s why I felt pretty confident about the technical side of things, although I was still nervous about actually presenting my thesis.
In fact, I think it was an advantage for me to defend my thesis from home, a place I’m very familiar with, where I knew exactly how my computer worked. I didn’t have to deal with issues like technical glitches when going somewhere else, transportation delays, and things like that.
Also, on a personal note, it was an advantage to hold the event virtually because it allowed colleagues and friends who don’t live in Montevideo—but rather in Argentina, Brazil, and Germany—to participate.
The thing about the virtual format is that technology doesn't replace face-to-face interaction. Although, to be honest, I felt very comfortable with the warmth of the panel.
What was it like to finish your final project under those circumstances?
It was challenging, especially given the circumstances. Since the health crisis began, we—like all other institutions—have been forced to adapt to an online format.
It was a lot of hard work to manage such a rapid transition. We had to train the teachers, adapt the materials, address all the specific situations, and always make sure we didn't lose track of the students.
In that sense, my work as director kept me very busy, and I had to put off working on my thesis until the weekend. However, it wasn’t impossible, and that’s partly because the master’s program provides a lot of support throughout the process of writing the final thesis. I see that as a very positive thing, since it really does make it possible to work and complete the master’s degree at the same time.
What motivated you to continue your education and training?
For me, continuing education is an ongoing necessity. My undergraduate degree is not in management; I earned a Bachelor’s degree in German Language and Literature and a teaching degree in German, both from the National University of Córdoba (Argentina). In my current job, I had a strong background in German, but I felt the need to further my education in educational management.
I was looking for a master's program that I could pursue while working. That's why I chose the program offered by ORT University
What have you learned, or what is the most valuable insight you’ve gained from the graduate program?
The graduate program is excellent. I couldn't say which aspect has been the most valuable, since I've gained so much knowledge and insight. From getting to know ORT University and its excellent faculty, to the highly interesting and up-to-date theoretical content, and even the research work I've done at a Uruguayan educational institution.
This last aspect allowed me to learn about other educational contexts and also to broaden my knowledge of the Uruguayan education system in general—since I had never attended school in this country as a student. I also learned from my fellow students in the master’s program, about their experiences and concerns as education professionals.
In your work, what aspect do you think you’ll be able to improve or enhance as a result of completing your master’s degree?
I believe that in my work I will be able to—and I am already trying to—promote educational improvements, as well as the planning and implementation of projects. And, as much as possible, I also hope to foster innovation.