After reading George Siemens' Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age , I wonder just how radical a theory it really is and whether it represents a blueprint for navigating our digital futures? Where, for example, would you draw the dividing line between social constructivism and connectivist theory? What makes it a 'digital age' theory? Why are Siemens' definitions of technology, knowledge and learning so limited? Is connectivism a learning theory at all? Siemens' theory seems to rest upon two major conceits - the importance and validity of Buckminster Fuller's "knowledge-doubling curve," and the anticipated negative impact of technological determinism on society. Connectivism could be, in fact, viewed as Siemens' direct response to these two concerns. But are his concerns well-founded? And, if so, is his approach an effective solution to these issues? In his book, Critical Path (1982), Fuller describes how prior to the 20th cent...
Comments
Post a Comment