I love the idea of network learning! It is an exciting learning experience for the students. It is also effective as for as communicating goes. You can connect with people around the world. It gives the students an opportunity to actually apply what they have learned in comparison to traditional teaching methods. That is vital for educating in the 21st century.
However, I do have some concerns about network learning. According to the video, network learning could be for any subject, topic, or issue. I agree to a certain extent. That is the first concern I have with network learning. Certain subjects, issues, topics, require different criteria. Some may require personal objectives that I think network learning is a little to broad or open for. For an example, in a subject like health education you may have to do assessments on the personal health history of students. Sometimes that may be a little emotional on the student's behalf to discuss specific issues, such as that, over the net.
The next concern I have with network learning is that all educators are not big fans of the new technology movement. According to the video, teachers are responsible for guiding students in implementing, utilizing, and acquiring network learning skills and techniques. Can we say that about all educators? The answer is no. As a result, that is going to lead to an on-going conflict in the education profession in the 21st century. Many educators are going to say network learning is necessary. Others are going to say it is not.
In conclusion, I think network learning is a great idea! However, there is going to be major issues pertaining to it. That is why I think it is going to be hard to implement it in certain school systems and districts.
A 7th Graders PLE
I really enjoyed the personal learning environment video. It was well organized, creative, and informative. As a surprise ,to me, it was all done by technology. I was amazed.
My PLE is very different. The main reason why is that I do not consider myself a technology guy. Although, I have basic technology skills I am still learning the more advance ones. However, I am looking forward to creating a PLE similar to the 7th grader's.
Samuel,
ReplyDeleteI was confused by your post on Ms. Drexler's Networked Student video. The point she wanted her viewers to see is the way in which students learn is changing, and so is the role of the teacher. Her video argues that we must change with the times, but also, she reaffirms that the teacher's role will never be obsolete.
And as far as your PLN, don't see it as an obstacle because you don't consider yourself a "technology guy", let it assist you in learning to use technology more efficiently. I know the student in the video seemed very savvy, but I think also having a PLN to keep her more organized, on track, and on schedule helped her to become more proficient. The point is you don't have to already be an expert to use it, but it can help you if you feel challenged :D
Keep up the good work!
Carly