These informal networks help teachers
to deal with the increasing complexity of their work
When Technology Does Not Support Learning: Conflicts Between Epistemological Beliefs an... - 1 views
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This article takes the provocative position that a PLN is *not* the best learning situation for all learners. The authors qualify this, however, explaining "when the technology used to support learning is designed to support a specific learning model, this can often lead to a compulsory learning process that users must follow to reach the course objectives." I am not entirely sure this is a bad thing, however; in formal learning situations, I think it makes sense to have clear objectives, assessments, and learning activities. In informal settings--such as personalized professional development for practicing educators, for example--this point might hold true. The authors explain that individuals' epistemological beliefs affect their willingness to learn in an informal (PLN-based) learning situation. Further, the authors believe that beliefs about the role of technology for learning will impact the learning that can occur in a PLN. I really agree with these ideas!
Networked professional learning: relating the formal and the informal | Vaessen | Front... - 3 views
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most of what professionals learn is learnt informally
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Professional learning has proven to drive organisational learning and innovation
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This study delves into the formal and informal aspects of networks. It highlights the need for informal in a teachers' complex job, but the struggles with qualifying/managing the occurrence. It also speaks to administrations delicate roll as a "gate-keeper" or "barrier". Interesting read.
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Nice find Cassie. While the study is lengthy to read it is full of excellent information. I believe the ladder half of the text (discussion and key points sections) is where the most valuable information lies. I always appreciative objectivity and honesty, and the authors of this study were clear that networks aren't for everyone. Everyone is a unique and distinct learner so to blanket the idea of a network as something that is a "must" for effective professional development wouldn't be fair. Yet, it does acknowledge that from a team initiative perspective, networks are a blank canvas and platform for maintaining open communication so all parties involved grow.
Book Share - 0 views
Connectivism: Its Place in Theory-Informed Research and Innovation in Technology-Enable... - 5 views
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This article proposes that connectivism should not be considered a learning theory, and that it only is given so much attention because of the role it plays in the emerging area of MOOCs. The author looks at theories available to educators that can be valuable in modern education.
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The article discusses connectivism and its use in MOOCs and the detractors of the learning theory. There are two definitions of connectivism - one as the learning theory and one that critics of the concept would prefer. The article also includes several scenarios that explain ways that instructors can use connectivism in their classrooms, if they have access to the different required resources.
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This was an interesting article to read and to contemplate their arguments on whether connectivism is a theory or not.
Part of it All: The High School Musical as a Community of Practice - 3 views
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A great article on how high school musicals qualify as communities of practice. Impacts are shown beyond the "stage" and onto personal development, family, and work ethic.
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Ryan John is an elementary and middle school music and theatre teacher in New York City. In this case study, he examined how the community of practice formed in a musical theater group impacted their personal development.
Connectivism: Learning Theory of the Future or Vestige of the Past? - 2 views
http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/523/1103 This not so brief article of connectivism provides a large amount of background information on learning theories and discusses whether o...
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