Pam Callahan’s EDUC628 Blog
Online Education Course
Learning Theories
Source: http://www.elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm
I really enjoyed reading about connectivism because the theory fits well with our information society. Learning begins with the individual and increases by interaction with others through a social network. I have been affected by this type of learning. For example, before the Internet was available, when I would want or need to find information, I would either go to the local library or the local bookstore to read magazines or books or newspapers. Sometimes, I would be able to find someone who knew the answer. Now if I want to know something, I just go to Google and review sites. Google has become my cookbook, my telephone directory, my encyclopedia, my newspaper, and so on. Learners of today learn in much this same way, if they want to know it, they use this network of information resources to find what they need.
Constructivism seems to be the latest theory that college educators and administrators are following to promote student learning. It is known as the student-centered classroom. Teachers are there to provide students with the opportunity to learn. I believe that constructivism is a valid theory in that it does put the process of learning on the individual. In order for students to learn a topic, they have to become active about their learning. It is what I posted in my earlier blog entry that I wanted to do with my students in my classroom, provide them ways of learning that help them learn to be independent thinkers. I do not think that it is a religion. I think that it is a sound theory which seems to be making its way to the forefront of the education community.
What I know about teaching and learning theories were taught to me in Advanced Human Growth and Development and Secondary Curriculum. What I remember from taking these classes are the ideas of constructivism and Piaget and Vygotsky because they made sense to me. I want students to be responsible for their learning, and I want to give them activities which challenge them to help bring about learning. Sad to say, the other theories are not memorable to me. I guess you could say that I did not make a connection to them.
October 26th, 2007 at 1:17 pm
Morehead believes in this theory of learning. Constructivism uses ’scaffolding’ to acquire and build learning. And when you think about it this kind of learning theory does make the most sense. Once you’ve learned one skill you use it to build on the next skill. I think it may be the best way to incorporate curiosity and experience and turn them into a learning environment.
October 28th, 2007 at 9:21 am
I think that blending constructivism with connectivism will bring educators into the modern age. I feel like MSU is ahead of the game because the education graduate classes are structured toward student learning. I feel fortunate to be a part of their program.