Module 4 Replies to Connectivism Mindmap

I have replied to Yolanda Lyons, Michelle D., and Dwanell Dibartolo

Connectivism Mindmap

Networking has changed the way I learn in the fact that I didn't know what a Wiki or a Blog was until I enrolled in graduate school. I also learned how to navigate and collaborate with classmates using Google Docs. It has enlightened me in writing and editing along with my classmates. I have learned how to skype and set up a group in order to call everyone at once. It has really changed the way I communicate with others. I would rather skype than send out emails, but I realize it is not always convenient. I have utilized blogs, wikis, and google docs. It has given me a new perspective on learning because I can get ideas and views from classmates. Because of networking I have been motivated to introduce Edmodo, a secure social networking site, to my students. The digital tool that best facilitates my learning is the discussion board. after posting my views and responding to my classmates, I gain insight on how differently we think. It is interesting to see how the similarities and differences among my classmates affect the way we teach. I have gained ideas to add into my classroom from the discussion board. The discussion board is a place where ideas are shared. We have such a diverse class which makes discussions interesting. I also gain insight from the Blogs and Wikis. There, ideas are also shared. Siemens (2006) states that in connectivism we create networks of knowledge to assist in replacing outdated content with current content. I have utilized some current content by introducing my students to Edmodo, a secure social network. I am the first teacher in my school to do so. I learn new knowledge when I have questions by googling them. I also check with my classmates. In this growing age of technology it is easy to google any information needed. We must be careful of Internet resources, though. The reliability and validaty must be verified. Resource: Siemens, G. (2006). Knowing knowledge. USA: Author.

Responses to blog 3

I responded to Tawana Stiff http://tstiff7105.blogspot.com/

and Heather Rogers
http://learningtheoryeducationaltechnology.blogspot.com/

Collaboration and Contructivism

7105 Module 3 blog: Collaboration and constructivist principles – Tracy Snow

I do believe that humans have a basic instinct to “interact and work as a group”. For the most part people are at their best when they are working with other people. The sharing of ideas and clarification of problems makes projects easier to tackle. Rheingold (2009) talked about a new form of wealth in the form of collective action. People work well together than alone. The goals of constructivist is to problem solve, reason, critical thinking, and active and reflective use of knowledge (Driscoll, 2005). The constructivist conditions should embed learning in realistic environments; provide for social negotiation; support multiple modes of representation; and nurture self awareness (Driscoll, 2005). Technology facilitates collaboration of this by way of online learning. Social learning or learning as part of a group is an important way to help students gain experience in collaboration and develop important skills in critical thinking, self-reflection, and co-construction of knowledge (Brindley, Walti, & Blaschke, 2009).

Resources:
Driscoll, M. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction. (Third edition). Boston, MA; Pearson Education, Inc.

Brindley. (2009). Creating Effective Collaborative Learning Groups in an Online Environment. http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/675/1271

paper ID: 241616132