WEEK 7 Fitting the Pieces Together

I think my view on how I learn has been expanded due my deeper understanding of different learning theories since week 1. I think the most logical form of learning is Cognitive Theory because we are looking at how the human brain learns from an information processing point of view. This learning theory is more of a scientific approach to the process of learning and addresses the concepts of perception and memory. I think we can improve the process of learning to a certain degree but the pace of individual learning depends on innate ability of the learner, the learning environment, and the learner motivation. I believe, as Instructional Designers, we can improve learning by providing a positive learning environment and enhancing student motivation. I think fundamental learning also is related to an individual’s ability to concentrate or focus on any particular subject or problem. If a person can direct their brain to focus on any particular idea or concept they can usually decipher and comprehend information at a faster pace.
I think my expanded viewpoint now allows me to see the importance of the all of the learning theories because they all integrate into the 21^st century learner’s ability.  The Behaviorist Learning strategy which is based on stimulus-response associations is applicable to most fundamental learning processes. These would including recalling facts, defining and illustrating concepts, applying explanations, performing a specified procedure.
Constructivist learning theory uses the learners experience to create useful knowledge. The human mind creates meaning from the interaction of the environment and the learner’s social experience. The leaner constructs individual interpretations of the world based on experience and social interaction.
Social Learning Theory suggests students can develop learning skills to a certain maximum level or peak as individuals, but, we need social interaction with more knowledgeable peers in order to advance our problem solving skills to a higher level. I have certainly gained valuable knowledge and insight from my peers and professional associates.
George Siemens defines Connectivism as a “learning theory that integrates technology, social networks, and information”. The learner in the 21^st century is bound to use this high speed access information superhighway to gain knowledge and interact with their peers in their respective fields. Learning takes place when information is transferred from blogs and associated technology integrating audio and visual media.
Adult learning is specialized in four main groups. Action learning which emulates a college lab (hands on). Experiential learning which constitutes the past experience in the process of constructing knowledge. Project based learning which uses teams to collaborate on problem solving. Self-Directed learning which a strategy based upon motivation from internal/external forces. These forces can be financial, professional, or personal.
Certainly, the online classroom has changed the way I learn because it is a uniquely different learning environment when compared to the traditional classroom. We open the classroom door by logging in and we open our books by “clicking “on a resource subject, a discussion session, or an application assignment. We hand in our assignments by uploading, posting, or blogging. Of course, when we visit the Walden online library, we are only a few “clicks” away from and virtual wealth of knowledge. So, we can see that our online steps equate to the traditional classroom steps in functionality and effectiveness. I think this high speed access to information enhances learning because this communications technology allows us to focus on subject matter instead of wasting time gathering information. We can spend more quality time analyzing and comprehending the subject matter at hand and learning the technical skills needed to apply our knowledge intelligently.
I think my organizational skills have improved in the way I save information due to the complexity and large amount of information in this course. I have learned to blog effectively and successfully build mind maps to illustrate my thoughts visually which is very functional in the online environment. I think as 21^st century Instructional Designers and Learners we have to embrace technology and use it to the best of our abilities to be successful in our professional and personal lives.