Chapter 2 Summary and Ideas

 There is no doubt about it that technology has changed the way we learn today, and has a paved a new way for us to receive information. With the clicks of a few keys we can now find vast information on various topics on the internet, all of this in the palm of our hands. These advancements have made it easier to teach, to be exposed more, and most importantly to be able to learn more. Personally I think that the internet and technology has made things easier now in this day and age, and while some may argue to that point, there is no doubt that we are now living in a world where convenience is the main agenda for most companies. I am majoring in Computer Science here at stockton so for me personally being tech savvy and having knowledge on various tools that can be utilized with new and improving technology is a must.

In the Connect Educator, we are introduced to some ways that education and learning can be affected by technology in this digital age. Of course there is the standard learning, or the so called "Professional Learning", where it is basically like a school where the teachers teach and the students listen and learn. Teachers gather materials with the help of the school board and other teachers, and students are expected to digest the information and apply it. This is the common structure for most schools. Then there is "Personal Learning Networks", where educator spends more time learning and adapting for themselves using their own resources. This is a common theme for many professionals out there hungry for success and driven towards the common goal of gaining more knowledge to better enhance their utility in their profession. And last but not least, "Connectivism", where it is basically like the personal learning networks except the educator is more open and transparent about their learning with other people.

As mentioned before, I am a Computer Science major, so I have to be tech savvy. The way I learn about technology and enhance my knowledge on tools leans more to Personal Learning Networks. Of course I am always open and transparent in the way I learn with others, but all in all I am more of a learn on my own type of professional. I research information, I digest it, and by myself I apply it to my learning or assignments. Of course, "Connectivism", is more prominent now In this day and age. I am very open to learn from other people and have them help me when I struggle. I feel like this method of learning would be ideal for my professional career seeing as that I myself will not always know all the latest information and may be incorrect sometimes. It is always nice to know that someone will help and correct you when you are wrong but just may not know it. This method of learning and education is ideal for almost anyone in the professional world. You can go to class learn from the teacher, go home and do the homework and most likely forget about it all in a week or two. Constantly learning, applying, repeating, critiquing, and helping other or having others help you is what will really set you apart from your peers in terms of experience and efficiency in your professional career.

Hall, L. R., & Nussbaum-Beach, S. (2012). The Connected Educator: Learning and Leading in a Digital Age. Solution Tree Press.