Reflection on Connectivism;

A number of authors contest Siemens' ideas. It is unsettling to be challenged about existing perceptions of "knowing", in particular, the lack of purpose in asking our students to KNOW and be able to RECALL what they know in assessment. Many academics contest these ideas because they are not yet supported by research, rather, they are a position about the nature of learning. They also contend that learning is a state within the individual, and therefore connectivism cannot be regarded as a theory of learning, rather a theory about how learning is best supported.- More Info 

1. Do you agree with them?Can you see Siemen's point of view? What is your position?

I agree with Siemen on the relation to connectivism and learning, the theory of connectivism teaches the students to develop their skills in connecting to knowledge. AS our society moves forward at a frantic rate, people are upskilling and taking on more roles in their postion more than ever. Professionals need to be able to find relative information not store it in their memory, this helps with keeping up to date with the newest and best theory's not going down the line of sticking to what they know and having outdated information.

GDLT-Primary
T1-Assessment Mindmap

Reflection of Prensky's Ideas:

1. What is your belief and understanding of the nature of today's learners? Do they really "demand" technology in the classroom? I don't believe today's learners EXPECT technology from teachers, but I believe for students to learn proficiently, it is EXPECTED that technologies are used in the classroom. In this digital age, students can easily relate to technologoy as opposed to dated teaching methods without losing focus.

2.  Is there substance to the "engage or enrage" argument? Yes, if students do not find the activities\materials relevant and interesting they will switch off and a further pushing them to focus and learn about something they are not interested in will only "enrage" them.

Learning Styles:

1. What is your learning style? What sorts of learning experiences would suit you best with your learning style? I am fairly centred when it comes to Active and Reflective as well as Sensing and Intuative Learning. Things that benefit me a little more would be to stop and take in what I have read or hear and connect information to the real world.
2. In a traditional classroom of 25 students, how would you support the range of learning styles each lesson? Be sure to teach across the different learning styles, or during specific tasks tailor activities to suit each group. Though you will still need to teach variuos styles to ensure students have a wider ability to learn.
3. With your current knowledge of ICT, how could your design and digital pedagogy support your learners better? The use of digital pedagogy could enhance each learners experience, for example interactive displays, charts, videos, etc could be used to get the message through.


4. What sorts of profiling questions would you be asking about your learners to ensure you cater for everyone's preferences?  Ways in which the student likes to study, how they like to learn,  favourite activities, etc.
5.  How does ICT support differences in learning styles? ICT supports defferences in learning styles by being flexible to suit each style and providing an overall enhanced  learning experience that engages and focuses students better.

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