Module 4 - Connectivism Mindmap

The world that we live in is becoming more and more complex in terms of interactions and accessibility of resources, as presented by Siemens (2010). By saying that, I have to admit that my network has change the way I learn by providing me a broader understanding and brought me closer to individuals who are extremely resourceful. Having the connections and open communication with those individuals across the world, has also given me the opportunity to make important decisions in life, as well as better understand my profession.

In terms of which digital tools help my learning, I have to say that the online library database provided by the university, along with discussions, blogs and our latest group activity involving wikis have significantly impacted my learning. I consider myself a more visual learner, but the collaboration tools have helped me expand my ideas and understand other points of view.

When it comes down to finding new knowledge when a question arises, my preference is going online and doing a search on an online search engine depending on the complexity of the question. I like to find the primary sources, if possible, from which to gather the necessary information. If I am still not able to find the right information that I am looking for, I then bring it up with an individual from my network that I believe might have the answer or know where to find the correct answer.

Portable devices, such as tablets, laptops and phones, have given me the opportunity to have accessibility, as well as to share new information 24/7 from the palm of my hand. A powerful resource that if utilized properly will change the way we live and think.       

Reference

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Connectivism Learning Theory



Blogs I have made comments to:

http://georgeoneal62.edublogs.org/  

http://loridodd.blogspot.com/

http://lyndamarshallsblogpage.blogspot.com.au  

 

Module 3 - Collaboration

When discussing the concept of collaboration, I can say that as human beings, we are social by nature. Communication becomes a key element in human development that is acquired through constant interaction. On the other hand, we tend to conglomerate in cities and, in general, find groups of people that might share the same interests, education or cultural background with whom we socially interact. Even well known constructivists, such as Bruner and Vygotsky, presented their points of views emphasizing the importance of collaboration in the human learning process, as presented by Driscoll (2005).

Nowadays, the business world depends greatly on the collaboration and information gathered through the social media. In regards to this let me reflect on Rheingold’s statement when he says, “what forms of wealth could be created if we knew a little bit more about cooperation?” Companies are becoming wealthy by simply gathering and sharing important information from the common people to later utilize it to developed new products, knowledge or even ideologies. If people collaborate appropriately, they could accomplish much more than if they were acting by themselves. In order for this tool to become effective it should be accompanied with a strong communication network.  I believe that a great example is Wikipedia, an online collaboration tool by excellence.

Technology, nowadays, can easily be applied to facilitate collaboration among students utilizing constructivist principles. In its beginnings computers served the sole purpose of storing and retrieving information. Then they processed the data, to later create databases. From there we have been able to communicate from one personal computer to the other, even to the point were all the information is available in the palm of our hands 24 hours of the day, 7 days a week. One example that I can share from my own experience comes from Google Docs. In my school all the staff were asked to develop the curriculum for the following year. It took place online by giving the opportunity to everyone to add, delete, and discuss their teaching perspective, all at the same time. In my opinion, these all show us the capabilities for collaboration, a wonderful tool that is highly used in our world today.  

A very interesting research that I found on EBSCO by Chang & Lee (2010), demonstrates the importance of creating problem-based learning in computer classes to increase student motivation. This concept fits with John Dewey’s (1938) idea that learning is at its best when experienced first hand. When a student becomes involved in the learning process, learning can become extremely effective.    

References

Chang, L., & Lee, G. C. (2010). A team-teaching model for practicing project based learning in high school: Collaboration between computer and subject teachers. Computer & Education. 55(3). 961-969. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.

Dewey, J. (1938). Experience and education. The Macmillan Company, New York.

Driscoll, M. P. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

Rheingold, H. (2008, February). Howard Rheingold on collaboration [Video file]. Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/howard_rheingold_on_collaboration.html

Blogs that I've made comments:

http://castanosblogs.blogspot.com

http://lyndamarshallsblogpage.blogspot.com.au