Module 2 Blog: the trouble with _isms

Module 2 Blog: the trouble with _isms

Both Kerr (2007) and Kapp (2007) draw the conclusion that there is no single answer for learning theory and applications.  We have a choice to make in each classroom, that which serves the goal and purpose best, teaching a group of students the information we need them to know.  But is it information they need, process, or something else.  There is where the conundrum lies. 

What can we take from these ideas?  Connectivism (G. Siemens, 2012; G. Siemens, 2004)  is my learning style but will it work for my students?  How do I make a determination of the best course and what works for the most students?  Kapp (2007) suggests a progression: 

I suggest that lower level learning (lower cognitive load) requires a behaviorist approach (memorize, recognizing, labeling) as does the expectation of outcomes that must be measured. I then suggest that procedural and rule-based learning requires an emphasis on Cognitivism and finally, problem-solving, collaboration and creativity require a view of Constructivism.

While that is insightful, the application is what is needed for my class.  Do I make an approach that combines aspects of all or some and make some clueless and some very happy.  That does not approach the whole.

Our job, then, as teachers is to determine the pathway that makes most sense and has the greatest gains and be prepared to look at other approaches for some students so that we leave none behind. 

This may make sense, but application is another thing.  Our challenge, mandate, is to do that for every child.  Amazing how political determinations are made to set our standards but the politicians don’t have to make everyone happy with every bill.  Our job gets tougher with each passing day and one of the _isms may help us make some sense of it without it being a single answer (Kapp, 2007; Kerr, 2007).

References

Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and About: Discussion on Educational Schools of Thought. Kapp Notes. blog. Retrieved from http://www.uleduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/

Kerr, W. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker. Bill Kerr. blog. Retrieved from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Siemens, G. (2004, December 12). Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age. elearnspace everything learning. Retrieved from http://www.elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm

Siemens, G. (2012, May 21). Downes on Connectivism and Connective Knowledge. Connectivism. Retrieved from http://www.connectivism.ca/