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