My network, specifically my connection to my network has changed the way that I learn. When it comes to projects in learning I have tended to be a loner preferring to work alone as opposed to within groups. Connectivity through tools such as email, Skype, and Googledocs, however, makes learning within a group manageable as learning and sharing can take place anytime and anywhere an in Internet connection is available. The network that I interact within provides a market place for ideas as well as a sounding board for questions and concerns. For example, the TIE Net group that I belong to is semi-formal organization of local (South-Central Pennsylvania) technology integration coaches. I rely on this organization to gather ideas from colleagues and test ideas that I have regarding technology integration within my classroom.
I utilize a multitude of Web 2.0 tools to facilitate learning. I am particularly partial to Skype and ooVoo for web chat and video chat. I routinely connect with fellow teachers who work to integrate technology in a K-12 environment. I also find Googledocs to be very helpful in collaborating on various documents with colleagues both within and outside of my school district.
When I have questions I routinely reach out to colleagues that I know have a working knowledge in the area that I have an inquiry. I will reach out to colleagues within and outside of my building through email (one-to one as well as listservs) as well as through Skype. I also like to review various technology blogs and wikis that have been created for technology integration. An example of a wiki that I visit often is http://web20guru.wikispaces.com/Home . This wiki was created by Cheryl Capozzoli, a technology integration specialist for the Capital Area Intermediate Unit here in Pennsylvania.
It is amazing to see the level of transformation our network has imparted in our learning process. We learn a new thing daily, “ooVoo” is new to me, this is the first time of coming across it. In essence, through my connection with you on this network, I have found another tool for video chat, which is the basis of our discussion. Connectivism is our ability to learn what we need for tomorrow rather than what we know today.
ReplyDeleteJoshua and Aderonke,
ReplyDeleteI am new to "ooVoo" as well. As a result of the Blog experience we are having in our class at Walden I am learning about many new tools to incorporate in my classroom and in my own learning as well. I find Google Docs to be an incredible way to collaborate on a project document. I will use it in my classroom this year as well. Great Mindmap exploring your connections Joshua!
Joshua,
ReplyDeleteI like the way you have your mindmap setup work/professional, Walden community, and family/peers. After viewing your networks, it seems that we use a lot of the same ways of networking. There are also some different ways, but that is what this lesson is about seeing how we network in various ways. There were some networks that I had never heard of but I will research them.
Marion Bush
I have never used ooVoo, but since you mentioned it I will be checking it out. It seems you have a great network of technology resources. Through the Walden community I am learning to use many new tools for my classes as well as information for my students. I didn't think of seperating my mindmap into the 3 categories that you did. This blog is an essential part of our learning experiences at Walden. Great post.
ReplyDelete