Blog Post #7

The Networked Student by Wendy Drexler

Learning has changed tremendously over the last few decades. There are different different modes, thoughts, and actions for learning. There are also different theories for learing that has developed over the years. One suits our generation today very well, and it is Connectivism.

Connectivism is basically a learing theory for our technological and digital age. It's a theory were learning occurs part of a social network in diverse connections and ties. In the video, it show how the student nurtures and maintains connections needed to facilitate learning. The student is exitibting learning not only by gaining skills and understanding, but also by actuation which is a much needed element of sociey today. He also is learning by the process of connecting information sources and gathering diverse opinions to form his own.

The question is asked, "why does the networked student need a teacher?"  The networked student not only needs a teacher but need a networked teacher.  What good is just a teacher if she can't keep up with the student.  If teachers expect their students to be lifelong learners, they must be willing to be the same. Teachers should be willing to learn from their students as well.  Teachers should ensure that their students are not left behind this age of progression. Teachers are needed to prepare students for the world in which they will live and work in. Teachers are needed to see change with a fresh and creative outlook. ready to look at situations with fresh, creative eyes.  Teachers are needed to attract and and keep students engaged in learning.  Teachers are needed to foster peer relationships for when they go on to network, they know the proper way to do so .  Teachers are needed to give students the reason for learning!!!


Welcome to my PLE!


She is definily the product of a Networked Student! It's truley amazing how much knowledge she has about networking considering her age. It's also amazing how she uses her creativity to faciliate her own learning.  This is what teaching is all about in the 21st century to me, letting students explore their own minds and creativity. Her PLN was so organized, creative, and engaging.