Connectivism

Mapping Your Learning Connections

It is mind-boggling when I think that a few years ago, I had no knowledge about computers, blogging, Skype, Facebook, YouTube, the World Wide Web, just to name a few. Having the opportunity to retrieve current information instantaneously has certainly changed and enhanced the way I learn. Knowing where to find the information has also made learning easier for me. Now, more and more information can be received through the phone, e-mail, etc. I have access to information 24/7 from anywhere in the world via the World Wide Web. No longer do I have to go to the library to research information, I can instantly download the information and also listen to it if the feature is available. One of my colleagues introduced me to text to speech software that would make reading easier.  I am excited to try it. As I pursued an undergraduate degree, I had to physically go to a traditional classroom, now I am able to go to school from the comforts of my home and retrieve class materials at any time. Writing by hand is now a thing of the past with the onset of the digital age.

At this moment, the digital tool that best facilitates learning for me is the computer. I have gained lots of knowledge using word processing, learned how to utilize spreadsheets, PowerPoint as well as databases. Lately, discussion threads have helped me understand better. I learned how to upload and download digital postings which keep me informed on my class schedules.  When I have questions, I gain new knowledge from interacting with my classmates in the discussion forums.  If I am not quite satisfied with the responses, I would conduct additional research. Someone always have an answer on YouTube.

 My personal learning network supports the central tenets of Connectivism in that Connectivism is a learning theory for the digital age. In this environment learning happens in many different ways—through email, video, small groups, web search, reading blogs and discussion threads. Siemens in his article on Connectivism states:

“The starting point of Connectivism is the individual. Personal knowledge is comprised of a network, which feeds into organizations and institutions, which in turn feed back into the network, and then continue to provide learning to individual. This cycle of knowledge development (personal to network to organization) allows learners to remain current in their field through the connections they have formed” (Siemens, 2004).

The structure of this course supports Connectivism. Learning begins with us. We are dependent upon the opinions of others within the network.  Without the network, learning will not occur. The only way we can improve learning is to plug into the existing network.

L.Phillip

Reference

Siemens, G. (2004). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age.  Retrieved June 4, http://www.elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm