Together we can achieve so much more. I think that this point is successfully backed by the theories of Dede and others when discussing fluid epistemology. I really liked that it was pointed out how “informal learning is a significant aspect of our learning experiences. Formal education no longer comprises the majority of our learning. Learning now occurs in a variety of ways.” This quote demonstrates that teachers are no longer the forefront knowledge holders that expound the knowledge to their students. Instead, students are growing up and learning in a time when personal connections and self-motivated learning is occurring. There are so many experts in various fields that are willing to share their personal testimonies, information, and experiences with those who are interested in the common area. I believe that building these connections will only help to facilitate a stronger learning passion within our students. Students will have the ability to research and learn about many things instead of just a given topic. It is important that through this process, we teach our students how to find reliable sources of information, how to respectfully question the knowledge that is so freely found on the web, etc.
One thing that was particularly unclear to me at the beginning of this course was the use of an RSS feed. After viewing the video, it is clear that if we are to obtain knowledge in a manner that reflects the building of personal learning networks, we need to have a way to organize and help connect information that is relevant to our learning. The RSS feed tool allows us to mainstream our ideas and finds into one central location that will help us to sort, obtain, and connect various pieces of the web to enhance our knowledge base.
Overall, the theme of today’s learning tends to reside on the power of connections. Teaching our students how to build and maintain these for their learning is essential.
-Marie
Marie-
I also found the quote, “Formal education no longer comprises the majority of our learning. Learning now occurs in a variety of ways” to be one that stood out. In today’s world, learning is happening constantly because of how connected everyone is at all times. Learning is at our fingertips. If we are traveling and want to learn more about the site we are seeing, with a smart phone we have the entire web on our hands. It is not a long drawn out process anymore. When you can get this information in minutes- and now with the LTE network even faster that most home Internet connections, I find myself learning more in a quick period of time.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us about the use of the RSS feed as well- I was having similar connections towards the beginning of the course as well!
-Shelby
I agree with Marie and Cheryl. Even in small group work, sometimes students have hard time finding their roles and adjusting to group members. Honestly, I also feel often confused and overwhelmed when I use various Web 2.0 tools, communicate with people behind the screen, find and ask experts to help..etc. I believe there must be the key role of teachers.
Marie stated: Overall, the theme of today’s learning tends to reside on the power of connections. Teaching our students how to build and maintain these for their learning is essential.
I think this is a great point to make, Marie. Students need to understand the power held in connection and their part in the shared creation of those connections. I think tied to this education should also be responsibility and accountability.