The Connectivism Theory
A learner is like a computer processor inside of a being with artificial intelligence, in that it is capable of learning copious amounts of information if provided with the correct foundation, resources and networking. "The organization and the individual are both learning organisms" (Siemen, 2005).When provided with the proper foundation, resources for learning, and networking, many of these views parallel the information found in the dialogue of Paulo Vieira's Youtube videos (The Network is the Learning & The Impact of Social Meida on Learning).
Similar to the ideas of Paulo Vieira, Siemen (2005) discusses how connectivism compares to the existing theories of development such as behavior, cognition, and construction. As referenced in the analogy above, humans, especially students, function similarly to to a computer processor as they rely on many resources in order to learn. In this case, an internet connection opens up learning networks, hence communication to all learners whether near or distant. The computer processor functions similarly to a human brain as it stores the most important information and expels the unimportant. Lastly, computer processors and technology both experience "half life." Half life refers to the time period in which new technology arrives and when it is deemed as obsolete. As learners, if we continue to actively engage in cooperative learning communities and social/ professional networking groups, we will always be "life-long learners." Ultimately, by continuing to update our knowledge through Connectivism, we continue to be the newest, most up-to date versions of active learners.
Similar to the ideas of Paulo Vieira, Siemen (2005) discusses how connectivism compares to the existing theories of development such as behavior, cognition, and construction. As referenced in the analogy above, humans, especially students, function similarly to to a computer processor as they rely on many resources in order to learn. In this case, an internet connection opens up learning networks, hence communication to all learners whether near or distant. The computer processor functions similarly to a human brain as it stores the most important information and expels the unimportant. Lastly, computer processors and technology both experience "half life." Half life refers to the time period in which new technology arrives and when it is deemed as obsolete. As learners, if we continue to actively engage in cooperative learning communities and social/ professional networking groups, we will always be "life-long learners." Ultimately, by continuing to update our knowledge through Connectivism, we continue to be the newest, most up-to date versions of active learners.
As I was reading an article about how to optimize battery life for my iPhone, one of the ways was to always have the newest OS update. I was thinking, I wish I could always update myself somehow to be the best version of myself as a teacher. In a way, we can. By always striving to learn more, stay abreast of the most innovative teaching ideas, and working together.
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