Having never put much thought into my own learning I have found the theory of connectivism to be quite fascinating. Connectivism can be thought of as the integration of technology, social network and information. (Siemens, 2010) Oh how things have changed since I was in school. The significant change in the way I learn that I didn’t even realize was happening was the ability to access a vast array of information so quickly through the use of technology. For example, if I have a question about any number of topics I can search for the answer on the internet, post the question on a blog, or find an email address for an expert in that particular area.
The creator of the theory of connectivism, George Siemens, states that “We must create networks which, simply defined, are connections between entities. By using these networks – of people, of technology, of social structures, of systems, of power grids, etc. – learning communities can share their ideas with others, therby “cross-pollinating the learning environment.” (Siemens, 2005, para. 21) I believe that my own learning network achieves the connections that connectivism is based around, but also supports and blends the social learning theory of constructivism as well. The capability to interact socially with such a diverse group of learners has extended the attainability of knowledge and to create meaning through interaction. This also builds upon the constructivist viewpoint that learning is a social process and learning stems from the involvement in social activities. (Kim, 2001)
Kim, B. (2001). Social constructivism. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Social_Constructivism
Siemens, G. (2005, January). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. International Journal of Instructional Technology & Distance Learning, Retrieved November 03, 2008, from http://www.itdl.org/Journal/Jan_05/article01.htm
Siemens, G. (n.d.) Connectivism. [Video Production]. [Transcript]. Laureate Education, Inc.
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