Module Four: Connectivism

I actually learned about these tools from my professional development network using the tool Elluminate. During a PLS I had for Georgia Virtual School (GAVS) I learned about a variety of tools that I could use to enhance my students learning experience. But I benefited because these tools have helped me share and collaborate with my fellow colleagues about best practices. I can now share awesome ideas with my colleagues in a quick and easy way and one that allows us the consistently stay updated with new techniques and information. That is the beauty of many of these tools; the products are not set in stone and allow for growth and change, just like my learning experience. For example, I find Jing to be highly beneficial because it allows me to hear and see what my colleagues are doing (i.e. we have a HUGE push for improving literacy this year and have a "Literacy Bureau" to share best practices). Now instead of having to trek across campus (and mine is huge) to speak with a colleague, I can view a labeled screen shot or watch a quick video created of their desktop.

The digital tools that help me the most are the asynchronous ones (like all of the ones illustrated on my mindmap). I have such a busy and hectic schedule, that sitting down to collaborate with others via Skype or Elluminate can be very difficult. The tools that grant me 24-7 access are the best. But that is the beauty of technology, especially at 3 in the morning =)

I learn new knowledge when I have questions through investigation. This requires research of credible and reliable sources. That includes fellow educators. I am not above asking for help, guidance, or new ideas for a lesson. This may mean searching for lessons on collaborative educator sites, like TeacherTube, or asking a fellow colleague. Specifically, like for content I am learning in this course, organizational tools help, like bubbl.us that I used to create my mindmap.