Sunday, January 25, 2015

Re:The Networked Student and Connectivism


Along the same line of connectivism theory ("Connectivism is a hypothesis of learning which emphasizes the role of social and cultural context." - Wikipedia), many students Facebook, use IM, YouTube, blog, however they may not readily know or get taught the art of social media for learning purpose, the rhetoric of blogging, feeding a twitter network. As more and more students are becoming networked student, it is time for us to become networked teacher. It matters how we teach our students critically consume and collaboratively create online media matters, and make use of the online resources without offending any copy rights. Here is some of my thoughts (I intended to make this posting a reply, so I am going to just share opinions):
- Use some of the tools in teaching (maybe one at a time) I remember how excited my students were when they are allowed to take pictures during the lab (1st year university student) and share on the department facebook page. They also sometimes tag themselves and reshare to their network. 
- Incorporate literature searching into the curriculum As science major, we were taught how to use certain database (SciFinder, ISI web of knowledge). This continues to be important. Besides, Many students, however, get information more quickly from google and wikipedia. No one would use SciFinder and read the original article to understand of a term easily defined in Wikipedia. I think it's worth sparing some class time and have a discussion of what's the best way to obtain accurate information in the context. 
What is your teaching strategy with a networked student? I look forward to your insights!

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