Module 6: Learning in a Digital World

Technology has changed the way we learn, communicate, and live.  Prior to my experience in the online environment, I used technology only to research or surf the web for personal uses and play around at my leisure.  In my experiences in the traditional face to face environment, technology was only used via the computer to complete assignments and do research.  My experiences in the online environment and the recent push to incorporate technology into the classrooms have led me to experience numerous tools to use to collaborate, communicate, and learn with various people and without time constraints.  I have recently learned to use tools such as blogs, wikis, and other programs to enhance learning for myself as well as my students.

My personal philosophy of learning is that learning in today’s digital society is practically impossible without technology.  I think the connectivism explains the way we learn in this digital era.  Siemens (2009) states that learning is the act of connecting to other people or to data and other information sources.  Students are exposed to a variety of information through immediate access to the Internet.  Students are also using a multitude of technology tools on a daily basis outside of the classroom.  The role of the educator today is to assist learners in forming diverse networks (Laureate Education, Inc, 2009).  Technology use in today’s classroom is critical and an absolute non-negotiable when ensuring student success and preparing them for a future in a digital and global society.

References

Laureate Education, Inc., (Executive Producer). (2009). Connectivism Learning Theory. [Video webcast].   Retrieved from            http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=6509858&Survey=1&47=            9580570          &ClientNodeID=984645&coursenav=1&bhcp=1

Other Comments

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http://decdr.blogspot.com/2012/05/learning-in-digital-world.html?showComment=1338130389793#c546230370187955533