My knowledge of learning theories has deepened significantly throughout the course. Prior to this, my knowledge of the learning process was limited to my experiences as a student and what I learned through my profession. In reflecting upon the course, there were several aspects about how people learn that I found most surprising: the variety of theories, the learning environment, and the modes of deliver. The most surprising aspect related to the variances between the learning theories and their stance on instruction. While each of the theories could be used to explain the process of learning, in a broad sense, they were not all applicable to learners in all situations. From my perspective, learning instruction needs to be flexible and blend the different aspects of these theories together. A more effective form of learning instruction will result. Enhancing this instruction, further with different types of technology also broadens the effectiveness of the learning experience. Another surprising aspect relates to the environments in which people prefer to learn. These environments vary from person to person and are influenced by the goals, interests, and lifestyles of the learner. While some learners are preferential to online learning others may have difficulty in converting and still prefer face to face. Another surprising aspect of how people learn relates to the mode of deliver. Learners respond better to instruction when it is presented in a format they are comfortable with and can relate to either as a result of their personal or professional experiences. Additionally, learners will have an increased sense of motivation when their interest in their learning content is high. I am flexible when it comes to learning and find that I can adapt to a variety of instruction presentations and forms of technology.
How I learn has changed significantly over the years in direct relationship to my learning needs, environment, advances in technology, and my professional and personal interests. While the meaning I derive from what I am learning is still impacted by my perceptions and experiences, how I acquire that learning has changed significantly. The advent of online learning and the increased use of visual and auditory tools in training and learning programs has improved the process within which I learn.
A learner’s motivation to acquire knowledge increases when the learning instruction they are using is to their preference. Designing effective learning instruction requires an understanding of the connections between the different types of learning theories, styles, and available technologies. While it is difficult to determine which learning theories will suit a learner best, it is important to choose modes of delivery that will effectively convey the learning instruction (i.e. visual, auditory, and kinesthetic). Theories give context to the learning process and a perspective within which effective instruction can be designed. Since the process of learning is complex and involves a deep understanding of a learner needs, it is essential to know those needs and consider them when developing instruction. Technology reduces the complexity of the learning process by providing a flexible medium (i.e. online learning) and avenue for learners to construct their own knowledge and meaning.
Meeting the needs of learners and designing effective instruction involves a deep understanding of the relationships between learning theories, technology, and the process of learning. Since the process of learning is complex, knowing what motivates learners and the types of environments available for learning will assist me in developing quality instruction. Having a deeper understanding of my own learning process also gives me greater insight into the expectations of learners when participating in a program. In designing instruction, I can apply the knowledge I have gained in this course to facilitate the most effective forms of learning. Additionally, I can create more insightful instruction that “promotes more effective cognitive processing and learning over the long run.” (Ormrod, Schunk, Gredler, 2009).
References:
Ormrod, J., Schunk, D., & Gredler, M. (2009). Learning theories and instruction (Laureate custom edition). New York: Pearson.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
How I learn
This week's blog will focus on my thoughts about learning after studying several new theories.
Broadening my understanding of the theories and styles of learning has changed my view on how I learn. While much of my previous discussion focused on the behavioral and cognitive theories of learning, it was limited in context. My view left out the underlying concepts of the connectivism, adult learning, and social learning theories, which are also part of the process. A blended approach, that includes aspects of all these theories, therefore is more representative of how I learn. The active participation in my learning process now encompasses that which is done via technology as well as through traditional means. In my professional life, collaborative and group learning are a popular form of learning. As an adult learner, the way I incorporate learning into my professional and personal life significantly influences how I learn as well. Technology has increased the flexibility, frequency, and availability of my learning and the options that I have to learn. My learning process now includes online learning programs. Since much of my original learning occurred in traditional face to face institutions, there was little technology for me to use in making connections. The advent of the internet has expanded the connections and meanings I can derive from my experiences. This view of leaning aligns directly, with the concepts of connectivism where much of the learning occurs through communities of networks via technology. Additionally, technology has increase the availability and types of tools I have for learning. Research is easier and broader and communication can be done via social networks over the internet. Learning materials now include a fusion of multi-media, videos, and podcasts that were generally limited in the learning process before.
In reviewing the various learning theories, I have developed a greater understanding of the learning process. Learning is unique and a process that varies by individual. The number of ways an individual can effectively learn has grown with the advent of the internet and technology. With the various options and forms of learning available, the boundaries I have for learning have been removed. My learning process now varies greatly and in direct response to both my personal and professional needs. After studying the additional theories I now understand that the meanings I derive from individual learning will differ from those developed in a collaborative, group, or social setting. While all forms of leaning are affective, they each bring out a different result. Technology enhances the learning process by improving the connections to the material and communications between learners.
My learning preferences are flexible and generally vary by content and need. Technology has certainly improved how I learn and my preferences in learning. Learning is an active process for me that involves the use of collaborative networks where the acquisition of knowledge and creation of meaning results from interactions and reflections on personal experiences. The best type of learning is one that allows me to use my multiple levels of intelligence and draw distinctions and make decisions with the new information being acquired. (Davis, Edmunds, Kelly-Bateman, 2008)
References:
Davis, C., Edmunds, E., & Kelly-Bateman, V. (2008). Connectivism. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology.
Broadening my understanding of the theories and styles of learning has changed my view on how I learn. While much of my previous discussion focused on the behavioral and cognitive theories of learning, it was limited in context. My view left out the underlying concepts of the connectivism, adult learning, and social learning theories, which are also part of the process. A blended approach, that includes aspects of all these theories, therefore is more representative of how I learn. The active participation in my learning process now encompasses that which is done via technology as well as through traditional means. In my professional life, collaborative and group learning are a popular form of learning. As an adult learner, the way I incorporate learning into my professional and personal life significantly influences how I learn as well. Technology has increased the flexibility, frequency, and availability of my learning and the options that I have to learn. My learning process now includes online learning programs. Since much of my original learning occurred in traditional face to face institutions, there was little technology for me to use in making connections. The advent of the internet has expanded the connections and meanings I can derive from my experiences. This view of leaning aligns directly, with the concepts of connectivism where much of the learning occurs through communities of networks via technology. Additionally, technology has increase the availability and types of tools I have for learning. Research is easier and broader and communication can be done via social networks over the internet. Learning materials now include a fusion of multi-media, videos, and podcasts that were generally limited in the learning process before.
In reviewing the various learning theories, I have developed a greater understanding of the learning process. Learning is unique and a process that varies by individual. The number of ways an individual can effectively learn has grown with the advent of the internet and technology. With the various options and forms of learning available, the boundaries I have for learning have been removed. My learning process now varies greatly and in direct response to both my personal and professional needs. After studying the additional theories I now understand that the meanings I derive from individual learning will differ from those developed in a collaborative, group, or social setting. While all forms of leaning are affective, they each bring out a different result. Technology enhances the learning process by improving the connections to the material and communications between learners.
My learning preferences are flexible and generally vary by content and need. Technology has certainly improved how I learn and my preferences in learning. Learning is an active process for me that involves the use of collaborative networks where the acquisition of knowledge and creation of meaning results from interactions and reflections on personal experiences. The best type of learning is one that allows me to use my multiple levels of intelligence and draw distinctions and make decisions with the new information being acquired. (Davis, Edmunds, Kelly-Bateman, 2008)
References:
Davis, C., Edmunds, E., & Kelly-Bateman, V. (2008). Connectivism. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Thoughts on My Learning Network
My learning network has increased significantly over the years as my professional and personal interests have grown and expanded. With the advent of the internet and advances in technology the ability for me to learn and develop new knowledge has become easier. Traditional environments and tools are no longer the only option for me as the adult learner. Restrictions in learning due to distance, time, and location are neither a subject of concern or issue anymore. Since the emergence of online learning, I have been able to expand and broaden my learning network even further. The network now includes online communication tools and resources, such as blogs, wiki’s, that were underutilized by me before. Prior to entering an online learning program, my learning tools consisted of online programs, industry research tools, traditional learning materials, and general internet resources. While these are all useful in their own way, they did not entail any synchronous or asynchronous communication over the internet or current digital tools. As learning tools go, online discussion strings and applications are useful in broadening my understanding of the learning materials. The broadening of my learning network has significantly improved the way I learn as well. Online learning, depending on the format, presents information in a timelier manner. In contrast to traditional learning environments, online formats allow for an instantaneous feed of information. In this sense, the information I am receiving is always current. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning provides me greater latitude in when and where I learn.
With all the digital tools available to me, it is difficult to identify one that specifically facilitates my learning process. Each one in there own way enhances my knowledge base and improves my learning. A blended learning format, incorporating a variety of these digital tools and learning environments I believe will work best for me.
While I am always in the process of gaining new knowledge, both professionally and personally, I always consider all my resources when I have a question. Sometimes, knowing which resource to use to answer a question is the most challenging task of all. Within my learning network, I always try to use the most reliable and authoritative sources possible. The source varies in accordance with the area of knowledge; however, I generally tap those in my personal learning network first.
In some respects, my personal learning network does align with components of the Connectivism theory. When formulating a response to a question on an unfamiliar topic, I examine all knowledge resources available. These resources, consisting primarily of electronic and digital communication tools, allow for connections to information held in external databases. The resources generally will vary in direct reflection to the information I am processing. How I assess the information obtained from my personal learning network depends solely on the value I add to the resource itself. The regularity within which these resources update their information is a consideration when assigning value to the underlying data. Many of the resources I use update their databases on a daily and weekly basis to maintain the integrity of the information. While this is not always the case, when researching less volatile topics, such as established theories, it is part of my learning process. Knowing how to effectively use the information from these online resources is also a key aspect in understanding the value the connections within my personal learning network. While much of my network is online, I also include aspects of traditional information resources into my network and process of learning.
With all the digital tools available to me, it is difficult to identify one that specifically facilitates my learning process. Each one in there own way enhances my knowledge base and improves my learning. A blended learning format, incorporating a variety of these digital tools and learning environments I believe will work best for me.
While I am always in the process of gaining new knowledge, both professionally and personally, I always consider all my resources when I have a question. Sometimes, knowing which resource to use to answer a question is the most challenging task of all. Within my learning network, I always try to use the most reliable and authoritative sources possible. The source varies in accordance with the area of knowledge; however, I generally tap those in my personal learning network first.
In some respects, my personal learning network does align with components of the Connectivism theory. When formulating a response to a question on an unfamiliar topic, I examine all knowledge resources available. These resources, consisting primarily of electronic and digital communication tools, allow for connections to information held in external databases. The resources generally will vary in direct reflection to the information I am processing. How I assess the information obtained from my personal learning network depends solely on the value I add to the resource itself. The regularity within which these resources update their information is a consideration when assigning value to the underlying data. Many of the resources I use update their databases on a daily and weekly basis to maintain the integrity of the information. While this is not always the case, when researching less volatile topics, such as established theories, it is part of my learning process. Knowing how to effectively use the information from these online resources is also a key aspect in understanding the value the connections within my personal learning network. While much of my network is online, I also include aspects of traditional information resources into my network and process of learning.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Brain, Mind, Creative Learning & Problem Solving Methods
While searching the internet this week I found several good resource websites focusing on brain-based learning and problem solving. Each one of these sites contains a number of links to other resources on the same topic. In reviewing these sites I found valuable information that will help one develop an understanding in the relative topic areas. The websites are The Complete Method of Creative Problem Solving and the Enchanted Mind.
At some point every organization will encounter a business issue that needs solving. With the variety of problem solving methods available to use, how does an organization know which one to choose? On the Complete Method of Creative Problem Solving website, organizations will find a variety of resources to help them creatively solve their problems. A majority of the resources on this site focus on “problem solving and decision making using the scientific method.” (Edmund, 2009) While this site focuses primarily on the ingredients and workings of this method, it also discusses the steps for creative, group, and management problem solving issues. A highly interesting feature of the site is the brief summary it provides on the other popular methods of problem solving: Logical, Non-Logical, and Technical. While not the primary discussion piece of the site, these summaries provide a brief overview of each of the other methods features. As a final note, you will also find several worksheets, tools, and supplemental resources to help you through the multi step problem solving process.
Another website I found this week during my internet search is the Enchanted Mind. The Enchanted Mind is an excellent website to use in enhancing the mental aspects of creativity. This site focuses on the creative elements of ones mind and provides a variety of valuable resources on exercising the mind and improving one’s thinking. Within this site you will find a variety of articles on mental creativity and techniques for improve it through various avenues including meditation, self-awareness assessments, and mind games. Inspiration is a critical component of creative thinking. If you are highly interested in the inspirational side of creative mental thinking, then you’ll also find a multitude of inspiring articles here as well. Each one of the articles provides examples of how individuals can incorporate creative thinking into their daily lives. (Enchanted Mind, 2002)
Exercising the mind is an essential component of creative thinking. If you are into cognitive brain games and puzzles you will certainly find the ones in this site quite useful. There are puzzles to exercise and challenge the left and right side of the brain and some that will demand use of the whole brain.
One of the most valuable resources to this site is the discussion on the science of the brain and its impact on health. Without a healthy mind creativity will cease to exist. Understanding the importance of the brain and its impact on health is essential for dealing with health issues. The articles in this site will give you creative ideas on how to handle some of the more common health issues facing people today. Additionally, you can learn about the brain, its functioning, and all its wonderful components and how it affects creative learning.
References:
Enchanted Mind. (2002). Retrieved from http://enchantedmind.com/
Edmund, N.W., (2009). The Complete Method of Creative Problem Solving.
Retrieved March 13, 2010, from http://problemsolving.net/index.html
At some point every organization will encounter a business issue that needs solving. With the variety of problem solving methods available to use, how does an organization know which one to choose? On the Complete Method of Creative Problem Solving website, organizations will find a variety of resources to help them creatively solve their problems. A majority of the resources on this site focus on “problem solving and decision making using the scientific method.” (Edmund, 2009) While this site focuses primarily on the ingredients and workings of this method, it also discusses the steps for creative, group, and management problem solving issues. A highly interesting feature of the site is the brief summary it provides on the other popular methods of problem solving: Logical, Non-Logical, and Technical. While not the primary discussion piece of the site, these summaries provide a brief overview of each of the other methods features. As a final note, you will also find several worksheets, tools, and supplemental resources to help you through the multi step problem solving process.
Another website I found this week during my internet search is the Enchanted Mind. The Enchanted Mind is an excellent website to use in enhancing the mental aspects of creativity. This site focuses on the creative elements of ones mind and provides a variety of valuable resources on exercising the mind and improving one’s thinking. Within this site you will find a variety of articles on mental creativity and techniques for improve it through various avenues including meditation, self-awareness assessments, and mind games. Inspiration is a critical component of creative thinking. If you are highly interested in the inspirational side of creative mental thinking, then you’ll also find a multitude of inspiring articles here as well. Each one of the articles provides examples of how individuals can incorporate creative thinking into their daily lives. (Enchanted Mind, 2002)
Exercising the mind is an essential component of creative thinking. If you are into cognitive brain games and puzzles you will certainly find the ones in this site quite useful. There are puzzles to exercise and challenge the left and right side of the brain and some that will demand use of the whole brain.
One of the most valuable resources to this site is the discussion on the science of the brain and its impact on health. Without a healthy mind creativity will cease to exist. Understanding the importance of the brain and its impact on health is essential for dealing with health issues. The articles in this site will give you creative ideas on how to handle some of the more common health issues facing people today. Additionally, you can learn about the brain, its functioning, and all its wonderful components and how it affects creative learning.
References:
Enchanted Mind. (2002). Retrieved from http://enchantedmind.com/
Edmund, N.W., (2009). The Complete Method of Creative Problem Solving.
Retrieved March 13, 2010, from http://problemsolving.net/index.html
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Instructional Design Blogs and Resource Sites
Hello, this week I discovered several blogs and resource sites that focus on instructional design and learning. Due to their rich content these blogs and sites deserve some mention and review. Each one has postings and tools on a variety of issues encompassing instructional design and workplace learning paradigms, e-learning, and web-based e-learning. In my review, I will provide and overview of the blog and sites features as well as the content which makes it unique and worth a visit. The following blogs and resources sites will be apart of my review: the E-Learning Curve Blog, Rose Colored Glasses, and Instructional Design Open Studio.
The E-Learning Curve Blog has numerous postings on work place learning paradigms and their environments, e-learning, web-based e-learning, and technology. Postings are rich in theoretical discussion and graphics and cover a broad range of current issues in the field. The blog is user friendly and contains many traditional blog features such as an archive, search feature, tweet, and other useful author preferred search tools. You will also find on the blog links to the authors produced podcasts on constructivism, Flash, Captivate, and workforce training. The postings on this site are quite useful and can aid instructional designers and developers in creating effective learning tools for their workplace.
A great resource site is Rose Colored Glasses This site contains a variety of instructional design information, tools, and resources that can assist course developers and designers at varying levels of experience in developing courses. A multitude of topics from A to Z can be found here including links to many external learning centers and educational tools. In reviewing this site, I found an array of content rich postings covering all areas of the design field and recommend readings for the discerning learner. One of the best things about this site is its ease of use and layout. It is very user friendly and can serve as a great ongoing resource for instructional design professionals and developers.
The Instructional Design Open Studio is another blog site with content rich postings on instructional design and learning. Postings cover a variety of issues from instructional design paradigms to training as well as E-learning ethics, laws, and marketing strategies. This site has an enormous archive of postings and a useful category organizer for arranging all its topics. Instructional designers and developers will find this blog a very useful resource for their growth and learning in the field.
Until next time… have a great day!
The E-Learning Curve Blog has numerous postings on work place learning paradigms and their environments, e-learning, web-based e-learning, and technology. Postings are rich in theoretical discussion and graphics and cover a broad range of current issues in the field. The blog is user friendly and contains many traditional blog features such as an archive, search feature, tweet, and other useful author preferred search tools. You will also find on the blog links to the authors produced podcasts on constructivism, Flash, Captivate, and workforce training. The postings on this site are quite useful and can aid instructional designers and developers in creating effective learning tools for their workplace.
A great resource site is Rose Colored Glasses This site contains a variety of instructional design information, tools, and resources that can assist course developers and designers at varying levels of experience in developing courses. A multitude of topics from A to Z can be found here including links to many external learning centers and educational tools. In reviewing this site, I found an array of content rich postings covering all areas of the design field and recommend readings for the discerning learner. One of the best things about this site is its ease of use and layout. It is very user friendly and can serve as a great ongoing resource for instructional design professionals and developers.
The Instructional Design Open Studio is another blog site with content rich postings on instructional design and learning. Postings cover a variety of issues from instructional design paradigms to training as well as E-learning ethics, laws, and marketing strategies. This site has an enormous archive of postings and a useful category organizer for arranging all its topics. Instructional designers and developers will find this blog a very useful resource for their growth and learning in the field.
Until next time… have a great day!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
New Blog Links
I have found several great blogs on instructional design and learning. When you have a chance take a look at some of them.
Have a great day.
Have a great day.
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