Reflective Thoughts

The course has made me further understand the differences between learning theories and learning styles. I used to spend precious time discovering what learning styles of students and realized that I must use a variety of tools to reach all students in class regardless of their specific learning styles.  While I still believe it is important for students to be aware of how they learn for study purposes, ultimately it is most important for the teacher to follow a design that will provide strategies for learning using a variety of methods and a combination of theories. 

Learning does not happen in a vacuum but is a combination of past experiences, reality and comprehension (Davis, Edwards & Kelly-Bateman, 2008). Providing students with the opportunity to connect on a social and scholastic level will encourage them to connect with each other during the learning process.  This process can be achieved via distance learning, thereby joining students in a virtual classroom from all areas of the globe to share experiences and knowledge.  The online course is a personal choice of media to allow this to occur.

Technology plays a major role in my learning as it provides an avenue for me to research subjects and allows me to connect with others and to have access to multiple libraries.  I have achieved my undergraduate and graduate degrees through the online environment.  I will now pursue a post graduate certificate by the same method.  Distance learning allows connection with many different students and faculty and provides a wider source of experiences and knowledge.

Davis, C., Edmunds, E., & Kelly-Bateman, V. (2008). Connectivism. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Connectivism

Reflection

The network has presented challenges for me that actually motivate me to research and spend time learning why I cannot access certain sites or add to the blog.  It is frustrating at times but I enjoy testing my skills with technology and learning how to obtain better skills after the research.  I seem to go around in circles sometimes.

The digital tools that best facilitate learning for me are embedding things like sound bites and video into PowerPoint; using smart boards and designing online courses.  I am a visual learner and enjoy a change in venue that digital tools can provide to keep me engaged.

Use internet searches on topics that I am unsure about.  If that leads to a “dead end” I often seek articles and reading materials that are of reference quality.  I will consult with the instructor of the course for guidance when necessary.

The personal learning network supports connectivisim in that learning is a process that involves a network from developing connections (Wikipedia, 2011)  A blog and other social media helps to develop connections with other people who have different opinions which can facilitate learning.  Nurturing connections can facilitate continual learning (Wikipedia, 2011).  A blog can help maintain connections and keep the conversation current and flowing and place value on a blend of ideas.

CONNECTIVISM

Here is a copy of my mind map for viewing.  It relates to Physical Assessment skills in Nursing.

Interesting sites about the Brain and Learning

Here are two sites I found very interesting.  One is regarding the learners in the 21 st Century and the other continues to describe the function of the brain in learning.  I hope you find these sites as interesting as I did.

http://www.learningandthebrain.com/Event-81/Preparing-21st-Century-Minds/Program

http://www.tsbvi.edu/blog/otrvi/2011/08/30/learning-and-the-brain/

Starting Up

This is my first attempt at blogging.  Interesting!  Bear with me as I post.  I do not even go onto Facebook nor do I Twitter.  So this should be a valuable experience for me.