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.