Chapter 2 Developing a Connected Learning Model
Chapter 2: Developing a Connected Learning Model, of The Connected Educator, introduces the concepts of connective knowledge, and the connected learning model. This chapter emphasizes the importance of these concepts that “fuel for positive change” within the education system. Connected learning involves individuals coming together, to share their expertise and create a community where they can learn from one another. These connected learning communities entail 3 key components; they are, professional learning communities, personal learning networks and communities of practice. Connected learning communities often act as a tool for networking with a diversity of individuals from different work disciplines and from all across the globe. These communities foster collective growth, collaboration and can take place both in person or even online via different internet websites, forums and blogs.
The author argues that traditional, professional development methods, have its limitations of being noninteractive and disconnected. Traditional school-based practices involve following a standardized curriculum with little flexibility for individualized learning experiences. This method dismisses the possibility of complications during classroom practice and does not give teachers enough opportunities to collaborate and problem solve with each other. The connected learning model provides access to a much wider range of networking methods. Which is vital for achieving continuous improvement within education. Connected networking allows teachers around the world to communicate, share knowledge, ideas, and teaching styles that can be used to benefit the needs of their students.
Although the chapter associates connective learning communities with teaching and educators, you can apply this concept to any field of work. Networking can provide insightful information about your career of choice and help you find potential job opportunities in the future. I am currently in school for a degree in health science, with the goal of becoming an occupational therapist. Occupational therapists often treat clients with various conditions and illnesses. It can be beneficial to network and build relationships with other health specialists. These relationships allow you to assist and refer patients to each other. In healthcare interprofessional collaboration and teamwork is essential for efficient patient care. Interprofessional collaboration involves healthcare professionals from different disciplines coming together to use their individual specialized skills to achieve a common goal. Utilizing connected learning communities can create significant development in any career field.
I agree that application of this concept can spread far beyond just educators, as you explained in terms of your future career path. As stated, connections are extremely beneficial for information gathering in that field. I would have never thought of the idea that a learning community can aid in referrals!
ReplyDeleteHi Catherine! I agree the networking can help you with opportunities in the future. I also agree that networking can be beneficial while learning about your career.
ReplyDeleteYou did a great job explaining how connected learning communities are essential for growth and collaboration, not just for teachers, but for anyone in any career. It’s true that traditional professional development can feel disconnected, and the connected learning model is a much more interactive and effective approach.
ReplyDeleteI also love how you’ve linked this to your future career in health science and occupational therapy. Networking and inter professional collaboration are key in healthcare, just like in education. Building relationships with other health professionals can open doors to learning new techniques, sharing knowledge, and providing better patient care. Your take on how these connected communities can apply across various fields is spot on!
That is awesome you want to work in health science and occupational therapy. It is great that you understand that networking is important in your career field because you have to have close relationships with your patients to understand them better.
ReplyDeleteHi Catherine! I also agree that networking is very important in your career and creating connections with others in your career can help with improving your skills. Connected learning is definitely crucial in education but it also has an important role in any career. I also liked that you explained what the traditional teaching method and how implementing more of these things can help improve ones education.
ReplyDeleteI think that this is especially important for your major and occupational therapy as networking helps you to get out there and create important relationships to help your career grow and also foster close relationships with your patience in order to build trust and understanding in them.
ReplyDelete