Module 4: Commectivism

Connectivism

When I was a student in the public school system, the traditional classroom was the only form of teaching/learning one could be a part of.  The learner was expected to sit in the classroom, listen to the expert-which was the teacher-and was not to question what he/she was saying.  After the information was given, the learner would take the traditional paper/pencil assessment then move on to the next standard.  Sixteen years later, that type of learning environment isn't as common.  The learner is expected to explore their learning, forming their own way of thinking and assessed in various ways to show their understanding of the standard.

Learners within my classroom are given the standard and the project I want completed; it is up to them to work on finding the solution and presenting it in a manner that shows me they comprehend the standard.  As educators we all know there are a number of ways to present your understanding of the same standard--by allowing my students to take control of their learning, I am allowing others to see that just one way of solving the problem isn't the only way.  It also allows the students to learn using the learning style/method that is best for them. 

The digital tools that best facilitate learning within my classroom are definitely computers.  My students do utilize the SmartBoard a lot to demonstrate their learning to their fellow classmates as well as myself.  We also use "Clickers" within the classroom when working on informal assessments.  My students also work with their Gaggle account on a daily basis--updating their social networking page, their blog and simply communicating with fellow classmates and teachers. 

When a question about new technology arises, I need to know where to look for the answers.  I no longer need to be an expert on every piece of technology in my classroom/school.  If I know where to find the answers then I can point my fellow colleagues and students in the right direction.  This is part of connectivism--being connected to all of the right resources and being able to utilize those resources when needed.

Kop, R., & Hill, A. (2008).  Connectivism:  Learning theory of the future or vestige of the past?  International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 9 (3), 1-13.