Learning in a Digital World - EDUC 8845 Module 6

The evolution of technology tools has created an avenue for learners to keep abreast of the emerging technologies. The impact of technology on the way I learn is immeasurable. It has made me have access to different learning styles, which gives me better understanding. The combination of audio, visual and text media has broadened the retention level of the most newly acquired knowledge. Though the use of technology has advantages and disadvantages, but it gives several options in which learners can depend upon, to enhance their learning processes. For instance, I have access to low bandwidth Internet connection; this has made downloading of the video file very difficult. However, the video file transcripts, which to a large extent would meet the needs of learners like me, are available in most online environment. The ease of access to online learning is as a result of technology, which has brought learning to the door step or bedroom of many people across the continents. My base is in Africa, and I am running a doctorate in United States of America, and currently on an on Holy pilgrimage in Israel. This example is to buttress the impact of technology in my learning. Wherever I am, and I stay connected, is equivalent to having the university in my pocket.

Learning in a face-to-face environment is very good as it involves bodily contacts. I had a first and second degree in Computer Science through face-to-face learning, comparing this with my doctorate in an online environment is quite distinct. The online environment involves a lot of collaboration, and creating learning communities. It gives me the opportunity to share experience with other learners; support the learning of each other while promoting creativity and critical thinking skills, open and broad mindedness as a result of constant interaction with diverse people; acquisition and reflection of new knowledge; and a transformative learning. In teaching and learning processes, the ability of learners to create, and construct new knowledge is critical, while the role of the facilitator is non-negotiable. Learning in a digital world would be effective, if a facilitator anchors the learning process through effective communication, feedback, classroom or faculty management, and learning community. Many learning theories, such as behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism are of the opinion that learners acquire new knowledge based on prior experience. This is further enhanced by connectivism, which creates a network for learners using technology.

Connectivism - EDUC 8845 Module 4

According to Kop and Hill (2008), the starting point for learning occurs when knowledge is actuated through the process of a learner connecting to and feeding information into a learning community. My network has changed the way I learn tremendously. It has taken me from the level of acquiring information to the level of effective application of the information to diverse situations. To buttress my new way of learning, I tried to use Spinscape for my mind mapping, along the line, I could not embed the whole map into my document. Rather than losing hope, I quickly used Smart Graphics in Microsoft word to achieve the same concept. It is all about connectivism, ability of learners through intellect to be acquainted to complex topics and begin to draw connections between various concepts.

The advent of newer technologies for information and communication has transformed the world into a global village. My first experience with online learning started eight years ago, when I took the first professional development course on technology integration into classroom instruction. Predominantly, we were using email and chat. Today, the likes of Googledocs, Elluminate, and Skype have turned around learning. Connecting to the world through the Internet has brought education to my doorstep and opportunity to study abroad while seated in my room. I am actively involved in various learning communities, and the impact of knowledge acquired within the last few years is immeasurable.

Emergence of newer technologies would not make me state categorically that certain digital tools are the best. However, the use of Skype for calls, web and video chat, and discussion boards has helped to facilitate communication with my learning communities. I use Googledocs to collaborate and develop documents. I do a lot of email, and use text messages especially for those that do not have access to Internet facilities. At my workplace, a productivity program that is very useful is Microsoft One note, which enables one to bundle spreadsheet, word document, and presentations into just a package.

The enormous online resources are the backbone of my quest for knowledge. I regularly use search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo to find information. I am always cautious of the fact that not all information is correct. Information must be from the right source especially when it relates to academics. If there is contradictory information, I seek the opinion of my learning community on the subject matter, as well as share my findings. It is about staying connected wherever you go.

Reference

Kop, R., & Hill, A. (2008). Connectivism: Learning theory of the future or vestige of the past? International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 9(3), 1–13. Retrieved from the Walden Library using the Education Research Complete database.