Connectivism


I had always traditionally learned by using textbooks, and taking notes. With the advancement of technology, I find myself utilizing my computer to expand my learning more. The computer, and more specifically, the internet have opened so many doors to the world of learning. If I do not understand something or want to research it further, all I have to do is type one or two words into the Google search bar and I am taken in many different directions. Information abundance requires that we offload our cognitive capacity onto a network of people and technology. Secondly, the recognition that technologically, our networks are incredibly rich right now, whether it's a mobile phone, whether it's a computer, whether it's access to a database, but we're seeing a significant explosion in how we start to connect with other people, but also how we connect with data sources (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009). I would say that between work and home, I spend the majority of my day using my computer in one way or another. While at work, I use it to keep up with emails from coworkers. I also use the computer and projector in my classroom to pull up videos or power points online to show to my students. It absolutely amazes me how many resources there are available on the internet to use when educating my students.


When at home, my computer usually sits by me to use when necessary. Whether connecting with others on Facebook, or keeping up with incoming emails, I like to have the access available. There is no doubt that I am a Facebook "junkie". I guess I thrive on making and keeping those connections with others wanting to know what is going on in their lives. Social networks, driven by technological networks, have similarly transformed communication, news, and personal interactions (Connectivism.ca, 2010). Facebook has allowed me to get back in touch with friends I had not seen since college or even elementary school. I believe that everything we do and say can be a learning experience. Often times, on Facebook, people post things that can show me a new way to do something. The groups that I have joined or liked post links to new ideas that can expand my way of thinking. Our knowledge literally is distributed across other networks of human beings, technological devices, and other ends (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009).  While at home, I also tend to have the Walden Portal up which I periodically refresh to read incoming discussion posts, or blog entries that are updated through Google Reader. 


My personal learning network supports Connectivism because according to Stephen Downes (2011),  Connectivism is the thesis that knowledge is distributed across a network of connections, and therefore that learning consists of the ability to construct and traverse those networks. Between Facebook, the internet, my work and Walden, I am staying connected with the world of technology and all who interact within that world. 


References


Connectivism.ca (2010). Teaching in Social and Technological Networks. Retrieved from http://www.connectivism.ca/?p=220


Downes, S. (2011). What is Connectivism? Retrieved from http://cck11.mooc.ca/week1.htm


Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Connectivism. George Siemens (Video): [George Siemens].