Can+Connectivism+be+Practical

=Can Connectivism be Practical?=

Theories of learning such as a connectivist approach challenge the notion of 'content as king' in the classroom but how practical is this in the classroom setting? This unconference session we will discuss and explore the notion of a 'connected' classroom experience with participants and others beyond the room in which its held. It will draw upon the opinions and experiences of teachers to discuss the challenges of living and teaching in a connected world.

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Principles of Connectivism
In his book "Knowing Knowledge" Siemens (2006) articulated 9 principles of connectivism as outlined below. The principles are used as a framework for analysing teachers' beliefs about learning and teaching for this study.
 * 1) "Learning and knowledge require diversity of opinions to present the whole…and to permit selection of best approach.
 * 2) Learning is a network formation process of connecting specialized nodes or information sources.
 * 3) Knowledge rests in networks.
 * 4) Knowledge may reside in non-human appliances, and learning is enabled/facilitated by technology
 * 5) Capacity to know more is more critical than what is currently known.
 * 6) Learning and knowing are constant, on going processes (not end states or products).
 * 7) Ability to see connections and recognize patterns and make sense between fields, ideas, and concepts is the core skill for individuals today.
 * 8) Currency (accurate, up-to-date knowledge) is the intent of all connectivist learning activities.
 * 9) Decision-making is learning. Choosing what to learn and the meaning of incoming information is seen through the lens of a shifting reality. While there is a right answer now, it may be wrong tomorrow due to alterations in the information climate affecting the decision."(p31)