Clifford reminds us that learning networks are based on the theory of connectivism.
Siemens explains connectivism as social learning, learning happening in a network. Knowledge in a network is found within the network’s ‘nodes’. The nodes of our PLN are the people and organisations we are connecting to. Learning is the process of making connections between these points of knowledge. Oddone points out that it’s the skill of the learner to see the patterns and to make connections to the nodes. Therefore the knowledge is socially constructed but the learning is unique as it is driven by the individual.
This infographic explains Siemens principles of connectivism.
Sourced from Daniel Grafton Visually.
Rather than being a stable learning platform networks are flexible and dynamic. Connectivism is the learning that happens in this dynamic environment.
The ability to differentiate between important and unimportant information is vital.
The key to an effective PLN is not just to be a watch and listen, but to be an active part of the network participating and providing knowledge. To borrow from John Seely Brown a PLN works well when it involves the small efforts of many, including you, rather than the big efforts of a few. Connectivism is then the magnification of knowledge, learning and understanding through a personal network.
