Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Learning Theory and Educational Technology - EDUC 8845

Module 4 - Blog 4
Connectivism


I want to spend time on my own to study the materials that are assigned for a particular project. I would like to discovery the solution to every question the project has. At the same time, I do not mind working in a group where each member of the group has to work on a portion of the assignment. At the end, all members get together to finalize the project before submission. My network changed the way I learn in a variety of ways. When I need to use the library I go online to my school library where I can find any article I want. Also, I can buy any kind of book I want from the bookstore online. Moreover, I can meet with my group online by using Skype to discuss the project we have to complete.  Finally, I used to write my notes on a piece of paper but I do not do it anymore because my computer or tablet is always a click way. Computer networks, power grids, and social networks all function on the simple principle that people, groups, systems, nodes, entries can be connected to create an integrated whole (Siemens, 2004, para. 19).
I decided to pursue my doctoral in education with specialization in technology. This was my first experience of taking courses online. In fact, I was afraid to start the Ph.D. program because I thought that I did not have a change of serving in the program. My wife changed my mind by encouraging me a lot. Every digital tool I use online for my studies such as discussion forums, videos, e-mails, webinars are the ones that best facilitate learning more me.
My network community has everything I need to help me get the answers to the questions I have. The type of the questions can vary from time to time depending on the situation. For example, I can use Google on my cell phone to search for information online, look for the definition of a word, or find the directions to a place I have to go. If the question has to do with one of the assignment in the course I am taking online with Walden University, I can always go to the discussion forum and post my question or I can contact the professor. In addition, there are professional blogs that I can become a member and I can post any question(s) I can have related to the type of professional blog. Knowledge does not only reside in the mind of an individual, knowledge resides in the distributed manner across network (Kop & Hill, 2008, p. 7).

Reference

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

2 comments:

  1. I felt you map was well organized. I like looking at other people's maps because they bring to my attention other areas in which we make connections. You mentioned how your wife gives you encouragement. I believe we all need people in our networks that will give us encouragement when we need it. I also believe we need people in our networks who are willing to speak the truth to us. Thank you for sharing your map with us.

    Lori

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    Replies
    1. Hi Lori,

      I like looking at other people’s maps as well to study more about connections and improve my imperfections. I am still standing in this course because of my persistence to achieve knowledge in higher education. I am afraid but I am still standing because of my family and of Course my wife. In addition, I am lucky because you, Lori, and Orin are very supportive members of our community group.

      Thanks
      Konstadinos

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