Week One Reflection
The three learning theories explored this week were constructivism, connectivism, and cyborg. This is the first time I have heard this terminology; however, it is not the first time I have seen some of these strategies. I am so excited to find out how the strategies I use are driven by previous data. Constructivism caught my attention the most because of my experiences in the classroom. J. Abbott (personal communication, October 5, 2009) stated a good teacher will try to take what a student knows and expand the child’s thoughts to add information or create new information. I am appreciative to now have research and proven documentation over constructivism. Southwest Education Development Laboratory (1999) stated that expert teachers start with the students’ background and interests.
Connectivism discussed the idea that students learn through networks. G. Siemens’ (personal communication, October 5, 2009) found that learners form connections or networks with other sources of learning and this is the learning. He emphasized that connections are made internally and externally. In Reading classes, we use the connections to teach students to critically assess and develop their understanding. We teach textual, personal, and world connections.
Cyborg theory mentioned by Professor Kevin Warwick from the Institute for Cybernetics was interesting and eye opening. Connecting the human brain to technology is closer to being realized that I ever imagined (Warlick, personal communication, October 5, 2009). At this point in my mind it is mind boggling. I would not be hasty in commenting on the relevance or irrelevance of this theory. I would be better of researching and reassessing at a later time.
Overall, the first week of class has given me insight to explain and integrate technology in classroom instruction more effectively.
References:
Abbott, J. (n.d.). Building knowledge: Constructivism in Learning. Youtube.com. Retrieved
on Oct. 5, 2009 from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F00R3pOXzuk
Siemens, G. (n.d.). The changing nature nature of knowledge. Youtube.com. Retrieved on
Oct. 5, 2009 from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMcTHndpzYg
Southwest Education Development Laboratory, (1999). Learning as a personal event: A
brief introduction to constructivism. Retrieved on October 4, 2009 from
Warwick, K. (n.d.). Cyborg Life. Youtube.com. Retrieved on Oct. 5, 2009 from
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