When I first began this course I strongly considered myself a hands on learner. I would develop connections between familiar circumstances and apply appropriate methods to deal with the situation. I still do this, but I have realized that there is a large influence of technology within my learning habits. If I am unsure of something or am asked a question that I don’t know the answer to I immediately Google it. I have developed my search skills to find an answer to my question and quickly find support via other sites. I still consider myself hands on because I will take what I learn from technology and apply it to physical activities. For example, step by step instructions on functions of new software. I can actively follow along through the steps and develop connections in my mind of familiar tasks.
I would categorize myself as a connectivist/cognitive learner. I obtain information in a connectivist fashion, e.g. internet, and develop connections. I may have to refer back to my resources at various times but once transference occurs remembering is a much easier task. I also feel aspects of social learning. I draw from other individuals experiences and relate that to what I know. Seeing individuals rewarded for accomplishments also gives me motivation, I never pass on an opportunity to learn.
Based on the previous statements it is obvious that technology plays a very important role in my learning style. I sometimes feel lost when I have no access to answers to my questions. I rarely write out ideas for posts, lesson plans, etc. it is all done in Microsoft word. The majority of my information recording is digital. The convenience that it brings is priceless. If I find myself with some free time and have access to a computer (which I usually do) I can accomplish my daily responsibilities. I think that technology needs to be embraced by all individuals. In some instances it can mean the difference between individuals understanding what you are trying to explain and having no idea what you are talking about.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
Connectivism
Connectivism
How has your network changed the way you learn?
• My network has been a very useful asset in all of my learning’s. I have realized that there are many different answers for the questions out there. Each individual will have a different response based on personal experiences. The unique experiences of the individuals within my learning network allow me to consider varying points of view on topics. I have discovered that in many instances it is very hard to arrive at a concrete answer. There are a lot of what if’s and circumstances that I consider when searching for answers. My resources used for processing new information and answering new questions have opened up many new areas that have become of great interest to me. With the learning network I have established I feel that I can conquer any new material that I encounter.
Which digital tools best facilitate learning for you?
• The internet is by far the best digital learning tool for me. The fact that I have access to an unlimited amount of information and resources gives me a sense of security, just knowing that if I really need to know something I can invest my time to finding the answer. As we all know this can take some time using the internet. The fact that there is so much information available it is easy for me to get sidetracked and find myself completely off topic of what I was looking for.
How do you gain new knowledge when you have questions?
• When I have questions I always seek out an individual that has some relevant experience in the area in which the question lies. Experience is a great educator in my opinion. The knowledge that can be gained from experienced individuals is of very high quality. We must be careful. As with the internet the source of knowledge must be valid. It is also important to keep in mind that individuals have unique experiences; these are important factors to consider when obtaining information from interpersonal resources.
In what ways does your personal learning network support or refute the central tenets of connectivism?
• My personal learning network is definitely a result of the technological age we live in today. I learn vast information from one primary source, the internet. The availability of the internet is second to none. Personally, one of the best ways that I believe to learn is to have a professional guide me through new material and tasks. The only problem with this is that they cannot always be available when I need them.
How has your network changed the way you learn?
• My network has been a very useful asset in all of my learning’s. I have realized that there are many different answers for the questions out there. Each individual will have a different response based on personal experiences. The unique experiences of the individuals within my learning network allow me to consider varying points of view on topics. I have discovered that in many instances it is very hard to arrive at a concrete answer. There are a lot of what if’s and circumstances that I consider when searching for answers. My resources used for processing new information and answering new questions have opened up many new areas that have become of great interest to me. With the learning network I have established I feel that I can conquer any new material that I encounter.
Which digital tools best facilitate learning for you?
• The internet is by far the best digital learning tool for me. The fact that I have access to an unlimited amount of information and resources gives me a sense of security, just knowing that if I really need to know something I can invest my time to finding the answer. As we all know this can take some time using the internet. The fact that there is so much information available it is easy for me to get sidetracked and find myself completely off topic of what I was looking for.
How do you gain new knowledge when you have questions?
• When I have questions I always seek out an individual that has some relevant experience in the area in which the question lies. Experience is a great educator in my opinion. The knowledge that can be gained from experienced individuals is of very high quality. We must be careful. As with the internet the source of knowledge must be valid. It is also important to keep in mind that individuals have unique experiences; these are important factors to consider when obtaining information from interpersonal resources.
In what ways does your personal learning network support or refute the central tenets of connectivism?
• My personal learning network is definitely a result of the technological age we live in today. I learn vast information from one primary source, the internet. The availability of the internet is second to none. Personally, one of the best ways that I believe to learn is to have a professional guide me through new material and tasks. The only problem with this is that they cannot always be available when I need them.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Information Processing: Linking Theory with Technology
As I searched the internet and Walden Library I found numerous references to the human brain, how information is processed and experiments that were conducted to prove theories. The first resource was retrieved from a website called Educational Psychology Interactive. The paper, titled The Information Processing Approach to Cognition, focuses on theories regarding the manner in which individuals sense, process, and retain information. Huitt identifies four main theories that attempt to explain the phenomena of learning; Stage Theory, Levels of Processing, parallel-distributed processing, and the connectionist theory. Each these theories explore the possibilities of how information is processed from the sensory memory (STSS) to the short-term or working memory and finally to long-term memory, signifying that information is actually learned. Huitt also describes the general principles involved in information processing, such as the capacity of the mind and the flow of information (bottom-up vs. top-down). The paper is very in-depth and as I was reading it I found myself recalling information from our course text regarding the same topics. The basis of any learning in my opinion is repetition. The theories explained by Dr. Huitt all have one thing in common, repetition. By constant exposure to material (old or new), individuals can recall information more readily and begin the process of chunking and opening up capacity within the mind. It is an excellent read and will serve as a great resource when I need a refresher on information processing.
The second reference was found by use of the Walden Library. It is an article in Computers & Education entitled Cognitive Learning Efficiency Through the use of Design Patterns in Teaching. You will need your Walden ID to get to this one. This article explores the use of design patterns as a learning tool. Alexander described a design pattern as something that “describes a problem which occurs over and over again and then describes the core of the solution to that problem, in such a way that you can use this solution a million times over, without ever doing it the same way twice” (as cited in Kolfschoten et al., 2010). This goes right along with the idea of chunking, categorizing information into a larger schema which allows for more memory capacity. The article focuses on design problems such as structures, roadways, and engineering problems. I can assure you that this is an excellent way for me to learn and I completely agree that this approach can enhance learning in all levels of individuals and education. Three different experiments were explained that dealt with experienced and inexperienced designers and how a pattern of learning affected the responses of the individuals. Again, I saw the theories that we are currently discussing in our class put into effect. By controlling parameters that theorists know a better understanding of learning and information processing can be achieved to better explain how memory and learning work together.
Both of the articles will be a great aid as I continue my education. By referring to these and associating the content within these articles a better understanding of how the brain works will be acquired. I can use this knowledge in my own learning as well as educating others. These are excellent reads and really engrave what we are discussing this week into my mind. I hope you find them educational as well.
Enjoy!
Justin
References
Huitt, W. (2003). The information processing approach to cognition. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University. Retrieved March 12, 2010, from http://www.edpsycinteractive.org/topics/cogsys/infoproc.html
Both of the articles will be a great aid as I continue my education. By referring to these and associating the content within these articles a better understanding of how the brain works will be acquired. I can use this knowledge in my own learning as well as educating others. These are excellent reads and really engrave what we are discussing this week into my mind. I hope you find them educational as well.
Enjoy!
Justin
References
Huitt, W. (2003). The information processing approach to cognition. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University. Retrieved March 12, 2010, from http://www.edpsycinteractive.org/topics/cogsys/infoproc.html
Kolfschoten et al., (2010, April). Cognitive learning efficiency through the use of design patterns in teaching. Computers & Education , 54(3). Retrieved March 12, 2010, from http://www.sciencedirect.com.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/science?_ob=MImg&_imagekey=B6VCJ-4XG3D63-3-1&_cdi=5956&_user=7754736&_pii=S036013150900270X&_orig=search&_coverDate=04%2F30%2F2010&_sk=999459996&view=c&wchp=dGLzVtb-zSkWb&md5=fd099d1744214a8741547b8d006c2a0b&ie=/sdarticle.pdf
Sunday, March 7, 2010
http://learningcircuits.blogspot.com
This blog poses a question every month that is called “The Big Question”. I believe that this will be very helpful in keeping up to date on instructional design. It does no focus on strategies, but on topics that instructional designers are faced with everyday. It is ongoing discussion not only about becoming a more effective instructional designer, but how instructional design fits into our everyday lives. I can draw upon the information discussed in the blog to improve my own effectiveness as a teacher. As an instructional designer in today’s world it is imperative to stay current with trends, technology and controversies and this blog addresses many issues that touch on these topics.
http://mpbreflections.blogspot.com/
This blog focuses on online learning and provides various resources such as tutorials for using online presentation methods. There are so many versions of this category of software in the world today that it will be nice to have an online resource to use as a reference. There are tips on making lesson plans spark student interest. Current technology is a focus of the blog. It discusses integrating technology with education and using every resource possible to reach students. There is also a links page that provides limitless content to various articles and websites that focus on instructional design in higher education.
http://www.dangerouslyirrelevant.org
This blog, created by Scott McCleod, is a very interesting one. He probes into issues regarding leadership technology in education. This blog focuses on K-12 education and although I teach at a college level, I believe that it will keep me informed on the circumstances that current high school students are dealing with and have a better idea of what to expect when they enter college. What technologies have they been exposed to? How computer literate are they? By obtaining answers to these questions I can better prepare the structure of my classes.
This blog poses a question every month that is called “The Big Question”. I believe that this will be very helpful in keeping up to date on instructional design. It does no focus on strategies, but on topics that instructional designers are faced with everyday. It is ongoing discussion not only about becoming a more effective instructional designer, but how instructional design fits into our everyday lives. I can draw upon the information discussed in the blog to improve my own effectiveness as a teacher. As an instructional designer in today’s world it is imperative to stay current with trends, technology and controversies and this blog addresses many issues that touch on these topics.
http://mpbreflections.blogspot.com/
This blog focuses on online learning and provides various resources such as tutorials for using online presentation methods. There are so many versions of this category of software in the world today that it will be nice to have an online resource to use as a reference. There are tips on making lesson plans spark student interest. Current technology is a focus of the blog. It discusses integrating technology with education and using every resource possible to reach students. There is also a links page that provides limitless content to various articles and websites that focus on instructional design in higher education.
http://www.dangerouslyirrelevant.org
This blog, created by Scott McCleod, is a very interesting one. He probes into issues regarding leadership technology in education. This blog focuses on K-12 education and although I teach at a college level, I believe that it will keep me informed on the circumstances that current high school students are dealing with and have a better idea of what to expect when they enter college. What technologies have they been exposed to? How computer literate are they? By obtaining answers to these questions I can better prepare the structure of my classes.
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