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Jennifer Frost

Connectivism | Tony Bates - 9 views

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    Tony Bates (my fav edtech guy) discusses connectivism and how it applies to teaching and online learning. Another great read. Anything by Tony Bates is quite amazing! EDTECH543 Connectivism
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    I found this site particularly fascinating in that it made proved the strong relationship between the nurturing approach and social reform model. It establishes some of the credibility of the source by giving an overview of the models' history and the objectively looks at the strengths and weaknesses of each. I particularly enjoyed the section at the end that asked the reader to question and formulate their own opinions. To me, connectivism is rooted in both the nurturing approach and social reform model as both use networks of information to make decisions that hold real world application.
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    My struggle with pedagogies such as the nurturing approach is that I am torn between teaching my students according to the way the world is and the way the world should be. In the former, I believe my students are academically and emotionally prepared to learn in any environment. In the latter, I worry that my students won't be able to cope and compete in the real world. When I worked with at-risk youth, many of them fell behind when they started fourth grade after the "class size reduction subsidies" stopped, and they were put in classes with 50% more students. They were no longer able to get the specialized attention and they were not prepared for it.
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    One of the aspects that Bates talks about in regards to connectivism is that "There is no need for formal institutions to support this kind of learning, especially since such learning often depends heavily on social media readily available to all participants." I found this statement to be a bit rogue as he tries to state that learning will automatically occur through the use of social media. In identifying how connectivism works, there is still a need to help define the learning for students so that they are provided with the proper structure of information, sources, and how to identify good information. I would love to think that all students inherently want to learn, but truly think that students also need to be taught how to learn through this medium. Not all learning will occur naturally.
thwilliams

Teacher Development Research Review: Keys to Educator Success - 0 views

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    This article discusses the benefits of professional development and the correlation with student achievement.
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    This article at first glance focuses on the keys to success as an educator. Within this article though, there is a section explaining the importance of PLNs. One main point of the article states that PLNs (and PLCs) offer teachers an opportunity to have ongoing community that impacts a teacher's practice more than a traditional pro-d session.
Rob Johnson

Personal Learning Environments: Challenging the dominant design of educational systems - 5 views

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    This article discusses the components of the current educational structure and how they can be detrimental to continued learning. It also proposes an alternative structure that promotes shared connections and networking.
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    The concept model of the PLE provided a good visual of what it should look like. The symmetric relationships clearly define how the user needs to actively contribute to the environment along with use or consume what it available from others. In the 21st century, PLE's can very easily be global which just brings that much more information to the users. The emphasis on tags, lists, and smart groups just reinforces the importance of making sure to remember to use them. I have not been very good in the past of using tags, but have recently realized how much of a difference is made when looking for information.
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    This article is about switching from a virtual learning environment (VLE), originally introduced to help facilitate technology in education, to personal learning environment (PLE) where technology and social interaction are used to enhance individuals learning experience. The advantages of a PLE include focus on coordinating connections between the user and services, symmetric relationships, individualized context, open internet standards, open content and remix culture, and personal and global scope.
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    I found it interesting how the traditional model of teaching could be enhanced to accommodate the lifelong learner. I liked how it gave a new approach to allow for a more symmetrical learning experience as well.
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    Written in 2007, this article purposes an "alternative design" to online education that seeks to expose students to a variety of different technologies instead of having them master one. It would then ask students to share new found resources and ideas with other students. Although this "new" concept is clearly the type of education the MET program subscribes to, it is interesting to read about it in a hypothetical sense.
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    This article argues that personal learning networks will help advance the field of education technology. The author explains the differences between the dominant design of education technology and personal learning networks. The author states that personal learning networks will help people build relationships and connections.
Melodie Worthington

Connectivism: A Digital Social Learning Theory - 8 views

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    This article looks at connectivism as "the embodiment of social learning theory in the digital age." It breaks down questions posed by Seimens in terms of how technology and networks connect with learning theories as well as how these translate into the principles of his theory. The values of connectivism as presented by Downes are also highlighted. Specifically it offered a good rationale for why behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism have limitations in the digital age which give rise to the need for researching connectivism.
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    favorite quote, "It is important, though, to recognize that technological age has changed the face of learning so significantly that new approaches should be considered and studied."
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    Jodi, I too selected a quote when I was reading this article ... I didn't see your post because I went right to the article! My favourite quote is different though: "Downes (2007) states that 'to teach is to model and demonstrate, to learn is to practice and reflect' (p. 1) as a summation of connectivism." Another thing I appreciate about this article is how concisely it incorporates Downes and Siemens ideas about Connectivism. It boils everything down into a simple "this is how it is" approach. Nice, quick read!
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    I liked reading Siemens principles of connectivism. They give great meaning to using connectivism in teaching. I think that the teacher must be able to explain the process before they can put into affect.
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    A good description of how connectivism is a social learning theory for the digital age. An interesting quote about other learning theories: "While these theories are essential to learning in many environments, a new dimension of principles must be developed when learning moves into informal, networked and technological enabled areas."
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    Melodie, this is a nice and concise article about connectivism. The author does a good job of explaining Downes and Siemens work in a clear but not overly wordy way, especially with the bulleted lists.
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    This article provides a succinct overview of connectivism. I particularly like how the author concludes with the point that all social learning starts with the individual and then branches out from there to networks and organizations before returning new knowledge to the individual.
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    Melodie, thank you for sharing this resource. I appreciate the article as it defines connectivism. Yet the authors are careful to point out that the theory is still developing and needs more research. It is healthy to learn that while the digital age is new so are those researching and exploring the informal learning groups that surround it theories. I appreciate the concise explanations and bulleted lists as well.
tygrogan

Connectivist learning environments: Massive open online courses - 0 views

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    Article discussing connectivism with a take on MOOCs, or massive open online courses. Concludes by stating that educational approaches in the technological age are in a transitional stage.
cbjohnsrud

Education World: Build Your Personal Learning Network - 2 views

  • onsider that our understanding of learning is changing. We need to think of learning as an experience that happens when we connect with others.
  • Whenever there is contact with other educators, there is hope. That's the power of communications. I
  • Blog what you learn, what you do. Soon, you'll realize you know -- and as importantly, discover more -- about what is in your head than you think
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    The author, a chief technology officer (CTO), does an excellent job outlining how to develop your own PLN. He challenges the reader to use Twitter, Diigo, Google+, and blog. The is an excellent beginners resource!
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    I agree with the beginner's resource comment, as everything on the site is simply reinforcing concepts and tools that are used in nearly all MET courses. In regards to Diigo, I'm still not completely convinced, but I assume I will come around by the end of this course.
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    I love that we are doing what he references in this class. And I have to admit, I have my share of resources, but connecting with others was never my thing. I like to research, save websites, share my curriculum with others, but never really thought to surround myself online with "co-workers." Why? Because I see them all day, and we barely even talk at work. We have meetings and still barely get to talk, and then if you see a co-worker in the lounge, the last thing you want to talk about is work! So, creating the online community and the PLN, really benefits you because it's work, but it's outside of the workplace. I am so thankful this class is forcing me to work on developing my PLN. Thanks for sharing the resources that article speaks to!
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    I like this a lot. As Jody stated above, I never really thought of connecting with others and considering them colleagues. I was more focused on just listening to their ideas and making them my own, rather than sharing collectively.
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    This article, while simple, points out some profound "a-ha's" about power of online personal learning networks. Online PLNs allow educators to engage in the flow of conversations without necessarily being to tied to a time and/or place. As the author points out, some of the biggest changes occur in educators when they begin to share what they know on a PLN. By sharing one's thoughts, an individual can reach a deeper understanding of his or her own understanding.
Mindi Torrey

Faculty Perceptions of Technology in Higher Ed - 3 views

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    This paper explores faculty views with respect to tech literacy, tech training, and pedagogy. The upshot is that to more broadly integrate technology in higher ed, more effective faculty training is required.
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    I really like the point within the paper where they identify the aspects that must be considered when training in a teacher. He states four main points about technology teacher training that I think are really relevant in where education is going today. 1. Education training takes considerably longer to learn than learning a new teaching model. 2. Access to technology at home and at school is essential. 3. Fear of the unknown must be addressed. And 4. The use of technology will force teachers to re-conceptualize the way in which they teach. I think these are 4 very interesting talking points when looking at the use of social networks and highlights the importance of using CoP's and Learning Networks to have each group benefit.
Cassie Davenport

The End of Isolation - 11 views

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    The study in the paper was interesting as it looked at K-12 educators and their use of Twitter to research, relate and form PLNs. Twitter and other social medias have allowed teachers to form networks that are specific to their needs and wants in terms of their own professional growth. In the "End of Isolation" the researchers findings touched on the fact that "over 82% of the time, the educators in this study chose to follow other educators or content experts related to their field of teaching so they were able to create a personal learning network meaningful to their professional needs." Now I just need to work with teachers at my school site to help them realize the individualized professional potential!
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    Cassie- This is a really neat resource in which actual data has been accumulated and presented for teachers and their use of a social networking website. It was interesting to look at the numbers behind the ten educators that they chose and see them present some other general findings. I think the "Benefits" section towards the end of the article hits the goals of any social network precisely: 1) Access to Resources, 2)Supportive Relationships, 3)Increased Leadership Capacity, and 4)Development of a Professional Vision. IF you get into these tools to become a better educator, then I feel those are four visions that you set out to fill by utilizing the networking/technology.
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    This is a great resource to use to support the research behind using Twitter as an educator. I think the title of the article says it all. As the only social studies on my campus, I have learned to reach out to other teachers using social media. The end of the article brings up some interesting points regarding professional development and Twitter. Research says that teachers need more than just a "one stop shop" when it comes to any professional development, and that they need time to reflect, question, and practice. I would argue that Twitter allows for exactly that. Having a community of teachers to come back to in order to reflect on a teaching experience and/or ask for support provides a safe place to do just that.
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    Cassie, this was a very interesting research article that presented actual statistics and information on how teachers utilize social media, specifically Twitter. It was very informative and discussed the uses of twitter beyond just being a social outlet.
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    This was indeed an interesting research project. It was nice to see that there were so many collaborations that were spawned through Twitter connections. Most of the teachers said they were able to exchange information or resources at a professional level, but I was surprised by how many continued the conversation at a social level also.
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    I feel like this resource has a lot of valuable information. I am very interested in learning to use Twitter as a form of PLN using Twitter and this resource seems to show the value in that. In addition, I liked the research study approach to this article.
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    This study underscored the benefits of Twitter for the educational community. The article shared the advantages to new teachers in particular, where one participant stated it changed her vision and practice in the classroom. Very powerful!
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    Of all the resources I have read thus far on PLNs, this particular article forced me to think deeper and reconsider my interpretation of this concept. First of all, I found that the article provided a picture of the quality of interaction that can occur within Twitter. The data collected by researchers provides an in depth look at Twitter as a PLN - a feat that few other resources I have read have accomplished. By detailing the amount, quality, and type of interactions and connections, a tangible conception of a PLN emerges, even for someone who has little to no experience with Twitter. Of the 10 surveyed, a majority of their connections and tweets were professionally related. According to Nussbaum-Beach (video I posted), the difference between a PLN and a CoP is the familiarity of the people and the connection to an idea or problem. However, this study provides a different perception of a PLN that is largely professionally based with strong two-way connections. These conclusions made me wonder if it is possible for facets of a PLN on Twitter to transform into a CoP. Further, at what point can one argue that a PLN has successfully transform into a virtual CoP? Thanks for sharing. This was an excellent read!
Danielle Leone

Teacher's Corner: Personal Learning Networks (PLNs) | American English - 1 views

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    This is a simple resource that explains personal learning networks for those being introduced to it.
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    The first section of this resource is great for someone new to PLNs. It expresses how PLNs provide the tools and resources that allow for an educators continuous growth. I also like that this resource explains that teachers may still have face-to-face PLNs within their district or subject area. However, it is beneficial to have the digital PLN as well to allow for growth that can expand further and can be accessed at all times. In addition, this article emphasizes how it is important to remember the "personal" part of PLNs, you can adapt your PLN to your changing needs.
Beth Transue

EdTech543 Module Two List of Social Networking Theory Resources - 10 views

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    This list provides links to articles and webpages I found on the topics of Connectivism, Communities of Practice, and Personal Learning Environment. Some of the articles require a log-in with the student's Boise State network userid and password.
David Mato

Personal learning networks - 13 views

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    There are four main aspects to a successful PLN: 1. Tools - depend on learners ability level but commonly include social media 2. Connection - groups of people with similar interests and goals. There is no boundary for location of group. 3. Delivery - can be through any method the learner prefers 4. Opportunity - with the development of technology, this can happen anywhere the learner has access.
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    I like that this link shares the "nuts and bolts" of PLNs. Seeing the basics laid out clearly is a great way to begin building a framework for understanding! I keep seeing NING mentioned in a number of articles, but I am unfamiliar with it. I might have to check it out just to stifle my curiosity!
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    This article was a great introduction to PLNs. I valued the intention it took from the beginning with the recognition that educators are life long learners, usually by choice, but also by state requirements. Making that connection between the inherent need for educators to learn and gain knowledge and the power of a PLN seems simple, but there are so many educators/districts not taking advantage of this resource.
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    This article makes a great point, that a personal learning network is designed by the learner where they are learning in their own comfort zone. The learner is attracted to certain things because of their abilities and own comfort level. The learner is in control of what they wish to accomplish, how much they want to learn and how they want to do it.
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    Great introduction to PLN's. I am sooo glad I am learning more about these. I have a new job teaching tech integration at the elementary level with zero curriculum, etc. I will be using PLN's to get research and other ideas. The great thing about this article is that it recognizes the importance of PLN's for educators continued PD. Great article!
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    This is a very simplified version which I like. I agree with Matt, the mention of PD in a brief article is good. A clear text which is helping me to build a better understanding. Thanks to Siss1382.
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    This is a good resource for someone looking for a layman's description of personal learning networks. The resource explains the elements - tools, connections, delivery, and opportunities of a PLN. It also talks about the growth of PLNs and connects it to social constructivism.
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    In this article from the Encyclopedia of Educational Technology, the author indicates that educators are expected to be lifelong learners and how Personal Learning Networks, that were originated in the business community, are a great tool to offer professional development. Four elements are cited as being the center to a successful PLN. These are the tools to build the PLN, the connections between the members, the way of delivering the information and the opportunity to participate in the PLN.
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    This wiki site was one of the most simplest definitions displaying the elements of a PLN: tools, connections, delivery, and opportunity. Tools allow the learner to use what is most familiar, connections provide the ability to build relationships with others, delivery includes how information is disseminated, and opportunity is when the learner has the time to practice.
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    This is a great site for someone new to PLNs. It provides a description of what makes up a PLN along with visuals. I also like the "growth" section of the wiki. In the first paragraph it discusses district PLCs. Many districts like to have vertical meetings, where all of the math teachers from elementary through the high school meet to see how their coursework aligns. These meetings are inconsistent because it is difficult to get all of the teachers out of class at the same time. Digital PLCs for vertical meetings would be a great way to allow for more constant collaboration.
Kelsey Ramirez

The Value of Connectivism -- THE Journal - 1 views

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    In this article by Patricia Deubel, Ph.D., she states how connectivism is a learning process that is continuously changing. What an individual learns is always changing and that certain internet tools have clouded the quality online. However, she discusses Siemen's learning ecology such as a variety of learner types (beginning to advanced) as well as different spaces to work on what the individual is looking to accomplish.
w-j-lawrence

Learn Spanish, French or Other Languages Online - Babbel.com - 0 views

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    Babbel is the new way to learn a foreign language. The comprehensive learning system combines effective education methods with state-of-the-art technology. Interactive online courses will improve your grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation skills in no time. You'll make fast progress and have fun doing it.
Susan Ferdon

WatchKnow - 2 views

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    Library of videos to help kids learn.
anonymous

Document View - ProQuest - 0 views

  • he ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) staff reach out to members and non-members by providing support during actual or potential challenges to books, Internet resources, magazines, and other library materials. Being a member of a state library association can reduce the feeling of isolation and provide networking opportunities for personal exploration of dilemmas relating to selection and access to resources in a library media program.
    • anonymous
       
      Being a member of the Idaho Library Association does help!
anonymous

Guideline on Censorship: Don't Let it Become an Issue in Your Schools - 0 views

  • Teachers should be encouraged to think through a rationale for any book to be read to or by the entire class. For primary teachers, who may read aloud many picture books to their classes each week, a written rationale is not practical. However, teachers should be prepared to explain their choices, stating why the book was chosen and what the objectives are in terms of the problems, needs, or interests of their individual class.
  • Obviously, the teacher should be thoroughly familiar with all assigned selections. In short, professional responsibility means not only selecting print and nonprint materials, but also possessing a willingness and ability to defend the choices made.
  • Appropriateness Factors to be considered in assessing the appropriateness of books are children's interests, the age level and/or maturity of children in relation to the book being considered, and the content, format and illustration.
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  • Breadth of Coverage Books may present problems of stereotyping with respect to sex and to race. Religion, politics, and questions of morality or patriotism are issues about which there are considerable differences of opinion. The importance of such books may lie mainly, or only, in their historical viewpoint and should be presented as such to children who read them. Teachers and librarians should be aware of these considerations and should make every effort to provide materials which present alternate points of view. Historically there have always been those who have recognized the offensiveness of these materials. Children, like adults exposed to new ideas, can accept or reject them, based on input from all viewpoints. All opinions require protection under the First Amendment.
  • IF and AFTER censorship problems arise (and before a formal complaint procedure is initiated), here are some approaches and considerations: Be sure to inform your principal of any complaint, and how you plan to handle it. Urge your principal to read or view the material objected to. Afterwards, share with him/her your reasons for using the material with children. Also, try to get a school board member and a local minister, rabbi, or priest to read or look at the material. If a parent complains about material, insisting on an immediate discussion about it, defer such a discussion; make an appointment with him/her for a later time. At the same time, assure the parent that you have a concern for the child's interest. Neither you nor the parent should be in the position of discussing material without careful consideration beforehand of the factors that are to be discussed. Do not defend materials on the spur of the moment. Apart from being unfair to all concerned, and particularly to children, it is your professional duty to present your views thoughtfully and with consideration. Reread or review the material in question, even though you may already be familiar with it. Identify its strengths. Put down in writing why you believe it is proper and useful in your teaching program. Collect reviews of the material from such publications as Language Arts, English Journal, Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, Horn Book, School Library Journal, and other professional publications. There may be three to five parents, other than the complaining parents, who may be particularly supportive of your teaching objectives. Request that they read or view the material being questioned and invite their written reactions, addressed to you and your principal
anonymous

Policy 652: Library and Resource Center Materials - 0 views

  • However, the board also recognizes the students’ First Amendment constitutional rights. It is the policy of this district that:  1.                  The district will maintain a comprehensive district wide media program which will provide access to large and varied collections of materials;  2.                  Selection of library materials will be made by school librarians, taking into account the needs of teachers and students, and will follow the accreditation standards and procedures set forth by the Idaho State Board of Education;
  • Any decision to remove a book, material, or resource from a school library will be content neutral, based on a legitimate exercise of control over pedagogical matters: neutrality will be demonstrated. Censorship based on the content of a book or resource is considered an extreme measure; prior to removing a book or resource from a school library, other less restrictive measures will be considered, such as placing the item in question on reserved or restricted status.
Judy Sweetman

International Children's Digital Library - 1 views

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    This is the best online library I've come across. There are complete books online from 25 countries, in addition to the United States. Many of the books are in the original language, which would help tremendously if you had students who didn't speak English.
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