During this course on learning theories, I was introduced to Connectivism, which has enhanced my clarity of the theories and how I adapt to this particular theory. In today’s technology rich society, it has become increasingly important to learn how to learn. (Davis, 2008)
George Siemens’ has simplified the principles of Connectivism: (Davis, 2008)
– Learning and knowledge rest in diversity of opinions.
– Learning is a process of connecting specialized nodes or information sources.
– Capacity to know more is more critical than what is currently known.
– Nurturing and maintaining connections is needed to facilitate continual learning.
– Ability to see connections between fields, ideas, and concepts is a core skill.
– Currency (accurate, up to date knowledge) is the intent of all connectivist learning activities.
The above principles are easier for adult learners to relate too. As for myself, I can relate to having the desire to learn more and also having the skills to see the connections between ideas or concepts. It is still a mystery to me how the brain can prune out the information that is no longer relevant.
Society plays such a big role in our learning process and I’m a true believer in learning by example ( a leadership model we used in the military). Now that technology has advanced so much connectivisim connects these points of references and assists us in ensuring the information we have is good and relevant.
Creating a mind map of the technology we use has opened my eyes to see how much of an influence technology had played not only my learning process but just me daily work. The most new use is use of blogs and the web in connecting to other educational resources.
As an instructional designer it is apparent that there are a variety of theories that can be used when developing instructional material. In my opinion, Connectivism takes into account this variety of learning theories and connecting with technology makes the topic more relevant. Dependent upon the audience, motivation is key in keeping them engaged which enhances and assists to ensure that learning occurs. Developing education technology such as game based learning keeps the learner engaged and motivated. Tough part is ensuring that what is developed is relevant to the audience and is connecting the appropriate theories to the appropriate design in game.
Reference
Davis, C, Edmunds, E, & Kelly-Bateman, V. (2008). Connectivism. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives
on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved 15 December 2012 from
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