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.