Connectivism

Technology has allowed me to have a lot more while fun learning.  More pleasure translates to increased relaxation and greater retention and creativity during the learning experience.  I love watching YouTube videos.  For our 100 point classroom paper, most of my references were video files.  For me, learning in an online environment has allowed me increased flexibility to study in time and locations that work best for my schedule.  Also, learning is easier for me to accomplish due to the increased availability of information. 

Although not a perfected theory, Connectivism excites me, and fits best into my philosophy of learning.  The theory aligns best with the organizational style and complexity processes seen in nature (Siemens 2009, Athabasca University, 2010). The human nervous system works through nerves that connect by nodes, paralleling the organization described in connectivism.  The theory of complex systems, including game theory, articulates that when many different behaviors merge, the outcomes are complex and more unpredictable (TedXTalks, 2011).  As described in Complexity Theory, in complex systems, one cannot accurately predict how entities will form and re-form (Siemens, 2013).  The concept of connectivism attempts to embrace the ideas of complex systems theories, paralleling most accurately the systems seen in nature.  I think that one day we will answer the questions that learning and instructional theory ask simply by measuring learning using future biological and scientific technological processes.  Connectivism is fundamentally different from the other learning theories. 

References:

AthabascaUniversity Connectivism (2010).  Connecting with George Siemens [video file].

            Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gNaOZAjkxg

Siemens, G., & Tittenberger, P. (2009). Handbook of emerging technologies for learning.

            Manitoba,, Canada: University of Manitoba.

TedXTalks (2011). TEDxCanberra - Boho Interactive -  Chaos, complexity, balloons and

            bunnies [video file].  Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bN2N7gqAax0.

Siemens, G. (2013).  Responding to the fragmentation of higher education [video file]. Retrieved

            from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qgntB2YEUI