Connectivism Mindmap - Module 4



With access to networks the way I learn has took a change.  Now I have almost instantaneous access to information I am seeking.  I check my emails, Facebook, blogs, and wikis daily to stay connected to friends, family, coworkers, and peers.  Doing all these things not only keep me in touch but also keep me up-to-date.  

Walden discussions best facilitate learning for me.  Through the discussions I can post what I have learned and peers can expound on it or ask me questions about the information I have presented.  Through the back and fourth discussion, we provoke conversations.  Through these conversations, the two people involved are not the only two that gain knowledge.  Others in the class my read the posts and acquire knowledge also.  

By asking a question you are giving someone the chance to answer.  We may ask questions face-to-face, through emails, through Facebook, or posting on a discussion, wiki, or blog.  We count on the person or people whom we asked to give an answer to the best of their knowledge.  It is up to use to whether we except that answer or seek a different one.

Responded to Keith Phillips and David Davis for Module 4.

Collaboration - Module 3

Do you believe that humans have a basic instinct to “interact and work as a group,” as Rheingold proposed in his discussion of the evolution of Wikipedia as a collectively developed encyclopedia?

I do believe that we as humans have the basic instinct to work together as a group.  This instinct is embedded in us just like it is embedded in animals which work in groups.  Dolphins swim in a circle around a school of fish trapping them while they take turns entering the circle for a meal.  Besides instinct, the basic idea of “two head are better than one” is instilled in us from a young age.  Collaborating and sharing of ideas is a positive exercise in which members of the group can learn from each other.

How can technology facilitate collaboration among learners based on constructivist principles?   

Technologies such as wikis, blogs, Skype, Google Documents, and course discussion boards are great ways to establish collaboration based on constructivist principles.  Through the use of all these technologies peers can collaborate with one another on a course assignment and share ideas.  Every learner has had their own learning and life experiences which they can bring to the table for everyone else to learn from.  

Find a current research study that has been conducted in the last 5 years that supports collaboration as an effective tool for learning. Include the link and reference for this study in your blog.

Using Online Tools for Communication and Collaboration: Understanding Educators' Experiences in an Online Course

I found this article on ERIC through the Walden Library. It explores the learning experiences educators have through collaboration on online courses.  This article made me think of what we are all experiencing at this time.

http://www.eric.ed.gov/contentdelivery/servlet/ERICServlet?accno=ED527148 

Responded to Temeka Shingles and Martha Bless for module 3.