I connected with and gained my understanding of the Connectivism article from my background in Theatre Arts and acting, rather the business/social aspect of acting. I didn't (at the time) think about the digital, I was focused on the learning aspect of it. Connectivism, to me, means connecting physically, mentally and at times emotionally with people, places and things, then being able to incorporate/enhance those experiences with technology, but not to a point of hindrance. It's a learning process where "nodes" connect (network) in order to build a community of continuous learning.
In class other people brought up many other important points regarding connectivism that I didn't think about. For instance, the validity of the information that is out there and how we interpret it.
My early experiences with the Internet I know that I didn't (always) think critically about the information that I was reading. For a long time I did not know how to "surf" the web. I had to make lists of subjects/websites that I wanted to look up or I would forget. Otherwise, I would just check my email and log off. Now, I can get around alright, but the competency level (another important point) of the user varies depending on their desire to learn and do more. For example, I have worked with faculty here at state and some of them are quite self-sufficient in the enhanced classroom, whereas others are very timid and non-trusting of technology and require a bit of "hand holding" in order to get through their classes. Some faculty just connect enough to get their problems solved, then go back their "old school" ways. Like the article stated, Connectivism depends on the user, their competency level and a willingness to learn. How do you teach something like this to such a varying group of individuals with many levels of competency?
*My understanding of new technology and web 2.0 stuff has increases so much since I first started, but I also actively choose not to get too involved/too reliant on technology. I have a fear of not having (enough) F2F encounters and social learning experiences, forgetting what it is like to be human. I say that because I am susceptible to contracting hermit-itus, but that's just me.
Wow, this one was long. I'm stopping now.
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I agree sometimes being too involved with the technology lets us forget that there's an actual out there wanting you to explore. I hope kids these days don't stay so plugged in that they forget that its ok to play outside with other kids instead online.
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