Siemens article talked about many of the earlier theories of learning. He hi-lighted Behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism that are the most widely used in creating teaching environments. Since the time of these theories creation, much had changed in how we learn, as well as the ways in which we are able to access information. Technology has forever changed the way we learn and process information.
"One of the most persuasive factors is the shrinking half life of knowledge. The 'half-life of knowledge' is the time span from which knowledge is gained and when it becomes obsolete." To me this quote summarizes the changing face of learning and instruction. Much of what we know about learning and instruction has become obsolete.
The instructor of today is like a new computer. They have all the new features, much like that of behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism. By the time learners walk out the door the computer has become an 'older' version, and the features will not be needed because better ones have been developed. New processors and new formats, fast running computers are always the horizon. Making older versions obsolete. As instructiors come across new ideas on learning, that have been developed, our current ideas about learning are becoming obsolete.
Siemens discusses the importance of connectivism as a newer model of instruction that encompasses the constant changing face of learning. The instructors ability to be able to see what's on the horizon and adapt learning theories before they become obsolete will be important in continuing to develop more effective learning processes.
3 comments:
As teachers, I sometimes feel overwhelmed by how in-tuned my students are with current technology advancement.It is as you mentioned that we already know may have become "old" the minute we walk out the door. I think it is very important for us, as educators, to focus on what our students are interested in and try to incorporate that with the help of modern technology. I think if I can have clear goal of what I want my students to achieve, I hope to minimize the overwhelming feeling of learning new technology.
Hi William:
Awesome pic! Pole vaulting is not for the meek!
I definately agree with the half-life concept that you pointed out with learning and our students. As a history teacher, I'm finding a lot of stuff that we teach on the Constitutional years is outdated but yet we still have to teach it. Why!!!!
I guess this is where Connectivism comes into play, finding those connections between past and present ideas. It's like the more you think about technology and things becoming outdated, you start to feel a little bit of apathy which is a bummer!!!!
I say as long as we teachers keep up with this technology wave, we'll be in it for the long run!
Keep striving!
Jackie
William,
You have given a brief summary of the article but where is your analogy?
Dr. Burgos
Post a Comment