I was overwhelmed and excited after yesterdays class, I feel much more centered today. I was really excited by the concept of connectivism. I was amazed by how we are able to use all kinds of different technology to create a student driven learning experience. We can allow them to learn the way that they are going to learn anyway. I can't count the number of times my 18 year-old sister has just opened Reddit as an answer to a question that I have, and to be honest, that site is not easy to use. I don't want to sift through those forums, but she sure can!
The concept of teaching through connectivism feels overwhelming to me, but I also wonder if part of that is relinquishing control and opening myself up to messes and clutter of learning. I think part of that will just be something that I need to work on...being ok with the clutter of learning. I also tend to get very uncomfortable with a "learn by doing" approach (probably a big part of the reason that I struggle with tech in the first place) I want to just be told how to do things then carry them out. However, we can no longer deny that empowerment and individual learning happen when we integrate these methods into our teaching. As a results oriented person, I can't ignore the best practices.
I see why those who haven't seen these learning methods in action can be resistant, but I also feel that we can be like translators for those who don't understand. Technology is getting more intuitive every day, and things we never imagined are now possible. How could we not make sure that kids in every community can benefit from that? At a certain point it becomes a social responsibility.
At the end of the day, lets keep some balance in our lives....
Ellen,
ReplyDeleteI love how open you are with being a little hesitant with teaching in a connectivism approach of teaching. I am feeling the same way! I also loved how you said that you cannot ignore best practices, and in taking that into consideration, a balance-approach seems appropriate. Now, in having this knowledge, we will be more apt to sharing methods and strategies to those who we encounter who are resistant to technology usage in the classroom. Really good thoughts! Also, that picture/the show=my favorite!
Ellen! I love the Parks n Rec picture!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about feeling overwhelmed with the "clutter" of learning. Sometimes it feels as if there is so much information out there it's difficult to know where to start. I suppose that will become part of our role as teachers, to help our students sort out the clutter and learn the information that is the most important and correct.