{"id":1780,"date":"2023-09-25T18:35:03","date_gmt":"2023-09-25T18:35:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/educationaltechnology.net\/?p=1780"},"modified":"2023-09-25T18:35:10","modified_gmt":"2023-09-25T18:35:10","slug":"connectivism-learning-theory","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/educationaltechnology.net\/connectivism-learning-theory\/","title":{"rendered":"Connectivism Learning Theory"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In the field of education, three predominant learning theories have long been at the forefront of theorists\u2019 minds. These are behaviourism<\/a>, cognitivism, and constructivism<\/a>. Countless research frameworks have been tied to these three influential theories since their inception in the first half of the twentieth century. However, they all predate the technological revolution that has drastically reshaped our way of life, including how we interact and acquire knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, in the digital era, many lean on AI-powered tools as their main information sources. Rather than flipping through pages of an encyclopedia, students of today are more likely to make a quick search using their smartphones. This change is not confined to personal search queries; it extends to classrooms too. Instead of depending on teachers and textbooks, the modern student views internet-equipped laptops and phones as authoritative sources of data. Therefore, as technology firmly embeds themselves in education, it brings challenges, revealing gaps in our time-honoured teaching methods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recognising this, the theory of connectivism has emerged, providing updated methodologies suited for our tech-driven age. For those in the teaching profession, or those aspiring to join, embracing connectivism could be the key to nurturing a conducive, modern learning environment. This article will introduce you to this contemporary approach and help you incorporate it into your teaching strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"A<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

What is Connectivism Learning Theory?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Connectivism is an innovative learning theory, which proposes that, in order to learn effectively, students should embrace the integration of thoughts, theories, and information that one experiences when using modern day technology. It underscores the pivotal role of digital tools in modern education, recognizing that our era of connectivity offers limitless avenues for shaping our learning journeys. An intrinsic feature of connectivism is the promotion of group dynamics. Collaboration and open dialogue allows learners to benefit from diverse perspectives, which can enhance decision-making, problem-solving, and the comprehension of complex concepts (5).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, connectivism champions the idea of decentralised learning, pushing the belief that real-time education does not only reside within an individual but extends beyond, encompassing platforms such as social media, online communities, and vast informational databases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The roots of connectivism can be traced back to the work of academics George Siemens and Stephen Downes in 2005. Their seminal works, published at similar times, cast light on the profound influence of technology in shaping our educational landscape. The digital revolution, they reasoned, has not only made information more accessible but has also transformed the velocity of its dissemination. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While both Siemens and Downes remain strong proponents of connectivism, their focus areas slightly diverge. Siemens has largely concentrated on exploring the social dimensions and interactions underpinning the theory. On the other hand, Downes has delved deeper into the realm of artificial intelligence, considering how both non-human entities and machine-based tools can facilitate learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are Nodes and Links in Connectivism?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Connectivism uses the concepts of ‘nodes’ and ‘links’ by drawing inspiration from network theory, framing them as integral elements in explaining the learning process in our digital era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A node, within this context, is essentially any point or source of information. This can encompass a range of entities such as people, organisations, databases, or other resources that can generate or process information. For example, a node could be a professional with unique expertise, a library, or a social media community focused on a specific discussion topic (1).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, links serve as the bridges or relationships that bind these nodes. They are the routes through which information traverses from one node to another. These links can manifest in various ways. For example, it could be through mutual discussions, academic references, digital hyperlinks, or even social ties on networking sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are the Principles of Connectivism?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Connectivism places emphasis on the intricate relationship between nodes and links. Drawing on some established educational theories and contrasting with others, it propounds the idea that knowledge is not centralised but rather distributed across an expansive network of connections. According to Siemens and Downes, the main principles of connectivism are as follows:
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n