In preparing a graphical representation of my studies and research interests, I reflected on the nature of online learning and constructivist teaching. My first thoughts were to show a parallel between the development of constructivist practices in the regular classroom and the development of online teaching practices. As stated in my narrative, I am particularly interested in researching the ways in which constructivism - including social construction of knowledge, negotiated meaning, and various modes of communication - can be implemented in an online environment. This lead me to consider a double-helix model to illustrate that parallel.

After discussing my idea with my advisor, I decided on this final version of my graphic, shown here. Online learning and Constructivism here are shown on a Möbius band. The Möbius band is topographically unique in that it has but one side. This illustrates the relationship between constructivism and the online teaching and learning environment as two sides of the same idea. Of particular importance to me are the axis on which both turn. One axis represents a continuum between my research and practice. The other axis shows the relationship between negotiated meaning and learning.