Connectivism and Mind Mapping: A Reflection

This focus of this week's learning is Connectivism. Founded by George Siemens, Connectivism is "driven by the understanding that decisions are based on rapidly altering foundations" (Connectivism, 2005). 

My network has shifted the way I learn tremendously from childhood to now. Growing up, much of the information I gained was secondhand. My network solely consisted of my parents, teachers, and television. Although some of those networks are still evident and active in my today, the modes of which I learn are mostly firsthand and through more advanced technology. Networks like social media, internet and class, place me in front of people, articles, and videos that help me answer the questions I have.

Currently, LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) has been a valuable tool in my learning networks. In the school district I work for, there are few opportunities for professional development and training in areas that I need growth in as a trainer. LinkedIn Learning has filled the void in helping me gain knowledge in data analysis, and assessment building. The apps, websites, and programs I am afforded to access through my Walden MIDT program are becoming a huge help in building a framework around instructional design. I have been interested in this field for many years and was often puzzled about how to utilize its content. Transitioning from a classroom teacher into the trainer role I have had for the last three years motivated me to move forward with the degree, in hopes of developing instructional content beyond standard PowerPoints used in our school district.

The first thing I do is search the internet when I have questions. The internet has been my go-to source for a while now, especially when it is work related information that I cannot gain assistance with from my supervisor. The internet provides me with a multitude of sources I can ‘sift’ through until I gain a collective understanding of what I was searching for. I then use the information researched as a foundation when developing my tasks upon.  

My current network supports the theory of Connectivism because of how I can attain information from multiple sources, yet connect them to find key concepts. The pursuit of online education is also a great example of how Connectivism is well-recognized, as it is understood that learning tools and methods in which the learner gains information will shift away from the traditional setting most are accustomed to. As Siemens states (2005), “as knowledge continues to grow and evolve, access to what is needed is more important than what the learner currently possesses”.

Reference:

Siemens, G. (2005). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. International Journal of Instructional Design and Distance Learning, 2(1). Retrieved from http://www.itdl.org/journal/jan_05/article01.htm