I began using my network in high school with social chat sites when the Internet started becoming more popular. As a student I stuck to traditional forms of finding information, going to a library. As times continued to change and the Internet became even more popular I used the Internet to communicate with college classmates and professors by email. I never thought I would ever attend online school. I knew I needed to be in the classroom with an instructor in order to be successful. After I realized I would not be able to further my education but attending a traditional university I enrolled in an online university. My educational network changed the way I research information, the library for me is a thing of the past. I can't remember the last time I entered an actual library. I use online search engines for research as well as virtual libraries, I also learn from the thoughts and opinions of others. I don't think I would have this vast knowledge of the Internet and web tools if I didn't have an educational network. My work network opened the doors for me to communicate with teachers around the district and get ideas for teaching lessons. We often use email to share links to useful sites or web pages we created. My networks changed the way I learn new information and share information. My social network even allows me to stay up to date with friends I haven't actually seen in years.
I enjoy using search engines from various sites to find information, especially when I have questions. Almost everything I want to know can be researched via web. Google and Google Scholar have become two of my favorite places to find information. I also like to share information and collaborate with classmates and colleagues with various tools such as wikis, blogs, emails, and online discussion forums. My experiences with these digital tools have been heavily influenced by my networks. I enjoy the connections I can make through my network connections. I feel that I have an abundant knowledge base now that I have a strong network.
From Michael hiett:
ReplyDeleteI also remember when the internet was coming to be more of a trend and was becoming more and more relevant to obtaining information. I tended to avoid it because I did not understand it. Similarly, I have rejected using devices such as the Kindle for reading in favor of traditional books. It just doesn't feel right and i have made statements such as "I like to write in my books and highlight". It was pointed out to me recently that those things can be done in the Kindle and iPad as well. I am warming up to the idea and may be ready to jump into the digital book age. I had also avoided blogs and this class has been my first experience. Now, having been forced to blog, I like it and will probably utilize blogging in some capacity from now on. I believe that my new insight and experience regarding various digital tools such as blogs and Google Docs to collaborate is a positive example of connectivism.