Three problems with the connectivist conception of learning - 1 views
started by katelyngriffin on 09 Jun 17
started by katelyngriffin on 09 Jun 17
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In this article, three main problems with the new connectivism theory of learning are pointed out and described in detail. With its emergence in 2005, connectivism was quickly thought to be the learning theory for the digital age. However, its status as a learning theory has been questioned. According to the authors, connectivism does not address the learning paradox, which is: How does somebody come to know something? If the learner does not know something, they cannot look for it, as they will be unable to recognize it even if it appears before their eyes. A key idea of connectivism is that students are able to make connections based on what they find through research and other Web 2.0 tools. Without that prior knowledge, even if it is hardly there, how can they search for something they don't know about? The authors also bring up issues regarding development of knowledge and underconceptualization of knowledge. Based on the information in this article, connectivism is not able to explain learning and provide a theoretical basis for pedagogical decisions. The article was optimistic in saying that it could happen in the future, connectivism is just not there yet, in its current state. This peer-reviewed article was credible and engaging. It provided a different approach to the connectivist learning theory and pointed out elements that no other article did.