My network has changed the way I learn by giving me a personal panel of experts upon whom I can rely for availability, expertise and up-to-date knowledge in my field. Being able to access those people in my network also gives me access to the experts in their networks because invariably they will point me in the direction of someone who knows or has more experience than they if they cannot answer my questions. This increases my knowledge base as well as my own network. Knowing "who" Siemens (2006) is most important in building personal networks. Knowing who the experts are and having access to them either directly or indirectly gives me a kind of comfort that I am not left to my own devices about something of which I am unsure. I may look up something, or read about it, but for real "knowing" I want someone with some experience in it who knows and has dealt with it in some form.
The digital tools which best facilitate learning for me are still the Internet, blogs and wikis of those whom I can access in real time and any time. I like on-line demonstrations, and those podcasts that talk you through a process while giving you visuals. Those sandbox tools which allow me to practice before going "live" let me learn a procedure or process at my own pace without everyone seeing and commenting on my errors are the ones that I prefer.
When I have questions, I ask those who, in my opinion, are likely to know. These may be my students, colleagues; former(retired) colleagues, other friends or even my daughter. I may look up information on the Internet or get a "how to" book. I will inquire of my personal classmates both former and current or I may ask the class instructor for clarification if it is a formal class. I keep inquiring until I am satisfied that I am in the know about this elusive topic.
Resources:
Siemens,G. (2006) Knowing Knowledge. Retrieved April 25, 2010 from http://lulu.com/
Stephen's Web, a connectivism blog. Retrieved April 25, 2010 from http://www.downes.ca/cgi-bin/page.cgi?journal=Connectivism%20Blog
Siemens,G.(2010) Connectivism;networked and social learning. Retrieved April 25,2010 from http://www.connectivism.ca/
From your mind map, I can see that you are very well connected. I think I need to redo mine seeing that I took it from a different perspective and just focused on technology. Anyway, I find it very interesting that you have such a large network. It demonstrates that you are a very social person. I am envious of the relationships you have, yet, I also keep my social network small on purpose. Do you think I am any less of a learner because I do this? I am wondering what Siemens would say of someone like me who doesn't seek connections with others in order to learn.
ReplyDeleteWhat are your thoughts on the depth of these relationships? How involved do you feel you have to be to reach specialized connections for recognition and understanding?
Great post, and helpful for understanding more about personal social networks.
Marci
Looking at your map, I noticed that you included every network that provides knowledge to you to enhance your knowing. I agree to the way you gain knowledge and the technology that helps facilitate your knowledge. When faced with a difficult task or unknown topic, I too venture out and ask experts about the topic to gain understanding. As far as technology, the internet has opened up a lot of doors for humans. The internet is a source that provides unlimited access to information as well as other people.
ReplyDeleteGreat job once again.
Marci,
ReplyDeleteMy learning networks work for me and I feel lucky to have them. While many of them never intersect, some of them do. Because your own network is smaller does not limit your learning, it just keeps it more compact. I have been teaching for forty years. Most of my networks are old as well. I do believe in keeping in touch with everyone and because I am so inquisitive, I tend to ask a lot of questions of everyone.
Nikisha,
ReplyDeleteThe Internet keeps and will continue to keep many of us connected throughout time and distance and this can only strengthen and enlarge personal networks. I know it has for me.
I think my network will expand when I am finally finished with this degree. My time is with you guys, and I depend on you to keep me straight. I have had many misconceptions but through discussion rewired information to shape accurate thinking. Also, the rapid pace of these courses require that we connect so that knowledge is supported and sustained.
ReplyDelete