Connectivism

Connectivism is a learning theory based on the notion that knowledge does not exist in the mind of a person but in systems whereby knowledge is accessed through people participating together in activities. Connectivism is a process of learning, creating connections and the development of networks in order to obtain knowledge.

The Principles of Connectivism

• Learning and knowledge rests in diversity of opinions.
• Learning is a process of connecting specialized nodes or information sources.
• Learning may reside in non-human appliances.
• Capacity to know more is more critical than what is currently known
• Nurturing and maintaining connections is needed to facilitate continual learning.
• Ability to see connections between fields, ideas, and concepts is a core skill.
• Currency (accurate, up-to-date knowledge) is the intent of all connectivist learning activities.
• Decision-making is itself a learning process. Choosing what to learn and the meaning of incoming information is seen through the lens of a shifting reality. While there is a right answer now, it may be wrong tomorrow due to alterations in the information climate affecting the decision.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connectivism

Siemens introduced the subject of connectivism through a research paper. It has since then been scrutinized, utilized, accepted and rejected. Essentially it is the notion that connectivism is a new learning theory that has not been accepted widely. With some academics arguing that the subject is in fact a “pedagogical view” (Verhagen, Plon, 2006) and not a learning theory.

I believe that according to the readings I have sourced and studied that the theory of connectivism cannot be regarded as learning theory until furthur more extensive research and testing is performed. Untill then I do agree with Verhagen when he states it is a pedagogical view, however I don’t think the whole theory should be disregarded because of this.

I think connectivism is a great tool which should be used in all classroom’s in order to get students involved and sharing information, experiences and emotions with one another.