Connectivism: A Part of Life and Learning

Connectivism asserts that learners construct new knowledge through the networks they construct. Using collaborative network, such as those stated as cloud networking by the Horizon Report (2009) allows me to utilize the views or expertise allowed by others across cultures and curriculums. According to Siemens [Vodcast], “Finding ways for learners to express ideas” is an essential part of learning.

According to Siemens (2008),
“To effectively educate learners, fundamental assertions need to be rethought: the design of schools and curriculum, the nature of knowledge in a connected world, the relationship between educator and learner, the means and methods of authenticating information and knowledge, and, perhaps most significantly, what it means “to know” in complex, rapidly developing, and chaotic environments.”

Cloud networking has helped me see the possibilities of its impact into a classroom setting to facilitate learning. I have explored the use of Google.docs. I liked Google.docs because there was no need for a video conference and that capability is not available to everyone. Google.docs allowed my collaborative group to communicate in colors, gave a history of participation, and was easy to maneuver. As for my students, I prefer ePals as a way for them to set up a network. It is a way for students to email students from other cultures and/or in other parts of the state. With budget cuts, connectivism has taken on a new importance for “authenticating information and knowledge.” Siemens [Vodcast] stated, “So, connectivist teaching would consist, and learning for that matter, would really consist fundamentally of finding ways to optimize the ability for learners to form networks.” Kop and Hill (2008) stated, “The learning process is cyclical, in that learners will connect to a network to share and find new information, will modify their beliefs on the basis of new learning…” This tells me that with the influx of technology and to keep up with its demands, we must include networking.

Reference

Horizon Report (2009). Retrieved Oct. 25, 2009 from http://wp.nmc.org/horizon2009/

Kop, R., & Hill, A. (2008). Connectivism: Learning theory of the future or vestige of the past? International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 9(3), 1–13.

Siemens, G. Connectivism learning theory. [Vodcast]. Retrieved Oct. 25, 2009 from http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/

Siemens, G. (2008) Connectivism. [Podcast]. Retrieved Oct. 25, 2009 from http://www.educause.edu/blog/gbayne/ELIPodcastConnectivism/167445

Siemens, G. (2006). Knowing knowledge. Retrieved from http://www.Lulu.com

Howard Rheingold on Collaboration

Rheingold (2008) stated that collaboration spreads across disciplines. It requires cooperation, action, and interactivities. As agriculture advanced, cities were built, and leaders kept count of taxes by making marks in clay. The alphabet was created but the elite administrators were the only ones allowed to use it. Then, according to Rheingold (2008), the printing press caused spread of collaboration and the alphabet was no longer just for the elite. He went on to say that soon there will be people walking around with super-fast computers. The sheer fast progression of this across the decades show that what Rheingold said was right on point, people have a need for interaction. I also think this is part due to the want human beings have for a need to be recognized for some contribution to the world. I don’t feel that anyone wants to think that life for them is just what there is on earth between birth and death. Whether, as I do, you believe in God or not, there is still a need to know that you “carry on” after death. Even as a proclaimed atheist, Susan B. Anthony, made her mark on the world. Why? I think she wanted to “live on in history” after her death. According to Wikipedia, Susan B. Antony (2009) was once noted as saying in regards to a family about to have their seventh child, “What a dreadful creature their God must be to keep sending hungry mouths while he withholds the bread to fill them!” It is notable to say that Susan’s niece disputes the claim that her aunt was indeed an atheist. There is always going to be more collaboration on the ideas in Wikipedia for just that reason, people have an instinct, not only to interact, but to disagree as well as continue their life after death.
With the advancements in technology, collaboration among learners is at an all-time high. Technological advances will not stop; therefore, this collaboration will be better and greater daily. The constructionist principle of a community of learners through communication is at its highest peak ever and is reaching higher.

Susan B. Anthony. In Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved October 7, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_B._Anthony

Rheingold, H. (2008). Talks Howard Rheingold on collaboration [Video podcast]. Retrieved from http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/