3B Theories relating to Networking

There are various theories of how networks succeed which is discussed in two examples that I identify with, those of Connectivism (Siemens G 2004) and Social Constructionalism (Crotty, M 2005).

Connectivism
Referred to as a learning theory for a digital age, the theory seeks to explain complex learning in a rapidly changing social digital world. It states that learning occurs through connections within networks. The model uses the concept of a network with nodes and connections to define learning. Learners recognize and interpret patterns and are influenced by the diversity of networks, strength of ties and their context. Transfer occurs by connecting to and adding nodes and growing personal networks.  According to George Siemens (2004), "Connectivism is the integration of principles explored by chaos, network, and complexity and self-organization theories. Learning is a process that occurs within nebulous environments of shifting core elements – not entirely under the control of the individual. Learning (defined as actionable knowledge) can reside outside of ourselves (within an organization or a database), is focused on connecting specialized information sets, and the connections that enable us to learn more are more important than our current state of knowing. Connectivism is driven by the understanding that decisions are based on rapidly altering foundations. New information is continually being acquired. The ability to draw distinctions between important and unimportant information is vital. The ability to recognize when new information alters the landscape based on decisions made yesterday is also critical."

 Siemens and Downes have experimented with Open Courses and both stress the importance of more open education.

Siemen's Principles of connectivism:

• Learning and knowledge rests in diversity of opinions.
• Learning is a process of connecting specialized nodes or information sources.
• Learning may reside in non-human appliances.
• Capacity to know more is more critical than what is currently known
• Nurturing and maintaining connections is needed to facilitate continual learning.
• Ability to see connections between fields, ideas, and concepts is a core skill.
• Currency (accurate, up-to-date knowledge) is the intent of all connectivist learning activities.
• Decision-making is itself a learning process. Choosing what to learn and the meaning of incoming information is seen through the lens of a shifting reality. While there is a right answer now, it may be wrong tomorrow due to alterations in the information climate affecting the decision.

I find many of the above principles of the Connectivism theory relate directly to me personally. Even with regards to this course which relies on discussion through blogs, and the use of digital learning to inform my opinions and expand my knowledge. The digital age has opened a whole new concept to learn and develop, no longer do we solely rely on the opinions and comments of one individual, we now have a vast ever expanding supply of sources to view and supplement our knowledge, processing the information as we see fit.
The principle of nurturing and maintaining connections is also extremely current and relatable, developing knowledge in specific areas relies heavily on  the ability and opportunity to ask questions and cast opinions. In order to continually do this connections must by maintained and constantly reviewed. As with a growing flower, with continual care and attention it will flourish and grown, but without, it will wilt and die.

Social Constructionalisum

The theory examines a human beings developed understanding of the world, it indicates that our understanding is progressed not separately within the individual, but in coordination and interaction with other human beings, through resources such as social networking.
The theory explores the ways individuals and groups participate in the construction of their social reality, looking at how we create traditions and norms through creating viral sensations. The ability to reinvent 'reality' by individuals acting on their interpretations and knowledge. Along with our capability to decide for ourselves on how we construct meaning we have the opportunity and possibility to change and shift thoughts and knowledge itself.
The theory clearly identifies the importance of the larger social processes and links in  closely with my blog on the power of the internet in my first tasks.