A second mind mapping chart has been posted to this website as it is more comprehensive and offers a better representation of my learning process. An important part of the second chart, omitted from the first chart, is that it demonstrates how I manage the information sharing process. My attitude toward the information sharing process is summed up in the quote which is located on the home page of this website: Knowledge is power. I firmly believe that knowledge is power and commit myself to empowering others with knowledge so that they can make informed decisions.
Presently, my job and schooling heavily influence my learning process because they are new endeavors in my life. Both endeavors involve quite a bit of research, networking and information sharing. As a result, the bulk of my work and course assignments are accomplished through some type of computer software application. Whereas I previously spent more time studying books, I now find myself utilizing some type of search engine to gain information.
Because I am a visual person, digital tools that include pictures or videos demonstrating steps to accomplish an action best facilitate learning for me. As I process the information, I’m simultaneously thinking about how I can incorporate sharing the information with others in some type of format. Explaining new found information with others helps to reinforce what I’ve learned and it also provides me with a better understanding of the content.
When I encounter something new, I first seek to understand the basic purpose of what is presented. Once I understand an item’s purpose, I learn more detailed information will help me understand things from a functional standpoint. I accomplish this by asking conceptual questions. Having a good basic understanding allows me an opportunity to make suggestions that may potentially improve operational efficiency.
According to Siemens, within the precepts of connectivism, new information is continually acquired and the ability to draw distinctions between important and unimportant information is vital. (Siemens, 2005) Some of the principles of connectivism include the following:
1. Learning is a process of connecting specialized nodes or information sources.
2. Learning may reside in non-human appliances.
3. Nurturing and maintaining connections is needed to facilitate continual learning.
4. Ability to see connections between fields, ideas, and concepts is a core skill. (Davis, Edmunds, & Kelly-Bateman)
Based on my analysis of learning and information sharing, my learning network supports these principles.
Davis, C., Edmunds, E., & Kelly-Bateman, V. (n.d.). Connectivism: From Emerging Perspectives on Learning, Teaching, and Technology. Retrieved January 31, 2011, from Department of Educational Psychology and Instructional Technology, University of Georgia: http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Connectivism
Siemens, G. (2005). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. International Journal of Instructional Technology & Distance Learning .
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