My Learning Mind Map/Connectivism

My learning mind map shows how I use different networks in my life to expand my knowledge.  I feel that I will always be adding to my networks as I continue to learn.  The technology networks on my learning mind map have changed the way I learn.  I find myself going to Google to find information and deepen my knowledge on certain topics.  I also have found online classes easier for me than being in a traditional classroom where I have to listen to the instructor lecture and take notes.  Bruce Spencer (n.d.) stated a written comment in a conference can be read and re-read, while a comment made verbally in a traditional classroom had to be remembered or noted  if it is to be recalled.  Therefore, the digital tools that best facilitate learning for me have been the internet, which includes my masters program where I can find articles, create and follow discussions, and chat with my fellow colleagues.  It helps me to be able to print all of the information I need as well as read my colleague's discussion posts.

 I believe all of the networks on my learning mind map are important to my learning.   They help me be responsible for my own learning.  Knowles’ main focus with the development of andragogy was the notion of the material being very learner centered and the learning being very self-directed.   The principles include: - Adults need to be involved in the planning and evaluation their instruction – Experience (including mistakes) provides the basis for learning activities. – Adults are most interested in learning about subjects that have immediate relevance to their job of personal life. – Adult learning is problem-centered rather than content-oriented (Conlan, Grabowski & Smith 2010).   I particularly like the way  Downes (2011) puts it, in connectivism, there is no real concept of transferring knowledge, making knowledge, or building knowledge. Rather, the activities we undertake when we conduct practices in order to learn are more like growing or developing ourselves and our society in certain (connected) ways. Therefore, my personal learning network supports the central tenants of connectivism by networking.    

 http://halfanhour.blogspot.com/2007/02/what-connectivism-is.html