Week 8: Connetctivism vs. Constructivism

To summarize, Connectivisim is a learning theory that we gain our knowledge from others and the world around us.

"The biggest question in my mind is whether the theory is powerful enough to have a real impact on main stream education. I see a lot of potential obstacles, especially with younger children." 

This is a great queston.  How much experience and "connectiveness" can young children have?  Can Connectivism be successful with very young children?  I believe that it can.  What is wrong with asking young children "What they think?"  "What are your experiences?"  "Have you been in that situtaion?"  These are just some examples of questions that can be asked to get young students to start thinking for themselves and communicating with one another.  Learning can take place at all levels, one needs to provide the appropriate tools for the appropriate age and ability level. 

Do you consider it "cheating" if students are working together to find solutions to problems?

I think there needs to be a balance between helping one another and finding out things, and thinking on their own.  There are times when it is important that students communicate and solve problems together and learn how others think and rationalize.  However, there are times when it is important that students know how to think things out for themselves.

How can we influence the educational system in the United States or even our own school district to embrace connectivism? Should we?

I think that we can be a more successful society if we learn to work together, and with others (especially globally).  Aren't two heads better than one?  :)

The New Learning Pyramid from the National Training Laboratories shows that the "Participatory Teaching Methods" result in the highest retention rates.  Meaning, we learn and remember more from Group Discussion, Practice, and Teaching Others.  It is important to incorporate all Methods to ensure that all learning styles are met.