“Learning is the process of creating networks” (Siemens, 2006, p. 29). My network consists of three main categories, which includes collaboration, research, and personal contacts. Using each category of digital tools, I am able to develop an effective flow of knowledge that enhances my abilities to teach adolescents, collaborate with teachers, and enjoy daily conversations with friends and family. According to Siemens (2004), this cycle of knowledge development allows learners to remain current in their field through the connections they have formed. The development of my learning networks has helped me become a better critical thinker, who can express validated opinions accurately. Blogs, wikis, Google Docs, facebook, and email have all aided in my ability to collaborate and communicate with others about various topics. Each type of technology has helped to broaden my knowledge because I can see, comprehend, and accept multiple viewpoints (Siemens, 2004). In my opinion, learning cannot occur without interaction with others and the use of multiple representations. Therefore, we should use universal design learning principles to strength our current learning networks. The UDL Guidelines strongly recommend providing the same information through different sensory modalities, and that digital technology makes it easier to provide this type of instruction and access for all learners (National Center for UDL, 2009).
Web 2.0 resources help to facilitate my learning the most because I am able to read the opinions of others, locate valuable research, and collaborate with others. Therefore, I get the best of both worlds, the opinions of educators and the opinions of research experts, simultaneously. Wikis and blogs also let me demonstrate my abilities as an educator, writer, and researcher in the field of educational technology and mathematics.
The type of information I need determines how I search for answers. For example, if I need information from a coworker, I use email, but if I need to research technology integration, I use Internet search engines, blogs, and research databases. If I have a technical computer question, I contact a relative, who is an expert in fixing computers. Therefore, my learning networks help me to function, learn, and explore new ideas everyday.
National Center for UDL. (2009). Guideline 1: Provide options for perception. UDL Guidelines – Version 1.0 Retrieved from http://udlguidelines.wordpress.com/principle-i-provide-multiple-means-of-representation/guideline-1-provide-options-for-perception/
Siemens, G. (2004). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. Retrieved from http://elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm
Siemens, G. (2006). Knowing knowledge. Retrieved from http://www.elearnspace.org/KnowingKnowledge_LowRes.pdf
Amy
You have made a great point by posting that the same information should be discovered through different sensory modalities. This will help ensure that the learner will have a deepened sense of the knowledge being presented. Great post!
ReplyDeleteAmy, excellent and well-designed post! I especially like how you mentioned UDL and addressed accessibility (being that it is the 20th anniversary of ADA) for all learners. One comment I would like to make is that your networks have a linear relationship, where the arrows flow in one direction. Was that intentional? If so, how do you think your networks affect you? Thank you
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