Fitting the Pieces Together

Fitting the Pieces Together
The information of the past weeks has solidified my knowledge that individuals learn by various methods but moreover that learning styles change over time. My role as an instructional designer is that of learning facilitator and as such must utilize various learning theories in the development of learning activities. Further, though the adult learner is self-direct and interested in continued learning through intrinsic motivation, the instructional designer must provide learning methods that support learning and facilitate success. Finally, connectivism as a learning theory was very new to me but most appropriate for the present change environment where the need for new knowledge is constant. Connectivism embraces the value of technology as a media by which information can be shared, discussed and improved in a timely manner.
My learning style is dependent on the learning activity. Read/write is my learning preference when I need to learn about a disease process in relation to treatment modalities. This information must be organized to be understood and retained, an example of cognitive learning theory. Transfer of learning is evident through the ability to problem-solve when patients present with specific symptoms and accompanying assessments. Kinesthetic is my learning style when I need to learn to operate equipment. Practice, practice makes learning stick, an example of behaviorist theory. As I move from novice to expert in professional development I rely on past experience and prior learning to facilitate decision-making, an example of constructivist theory. I am now more cognizant of how learning occurs, thus will be more aware of the learning methodologies to apply when preparing learning activities. I regularly use technology to research new information, to support high fidelity simulation and develop slide presentations for teaching and learning.

http://www.iddblog.org/

http://www.iddblog.org/

http://www.iddblog.org/

http://www.iddblog.org/

Connectivism

http://ideas.blogs.com/lo/

This blog provides information related to various elements of instructional design. Of special interest is the article by Chickering and Gamson. Information provided by this document can be applied to all methods of teaching and learning. The seven principles speak to the three domains of teaching/learning; knowledge, skills and attitudes.
encourages contact between students and faculty,
develop reciprocity and cooperation among students,
encourages active learning,
gives prompt feedback,
emphasizes time on task,
communicates high expectations, and
respects diverse talents and ways of learning.

In addition

The information on e-learning is simple and easy to adapt and provides examples of learning design framework

http://edublogs.org/10-ways-to-use-your-edublog-to-teach/