Arrant Artificer

  The introduction to and discussions surrounding learning theories, learning styles, educational technology, and motivation guided my understanding of the conceptual interconnectivity of learning and how it occurs. A reflective analysis of knowledge gained and associated social constructs broaden my perception of learning and my approach to instructional design and delivery. An abundance of research and literature are available to help to define which factors promote learning and why. From the idea of defining the member’s style for learning to the conjectures of cognition and information processing and to that which attempts to determine motivating factors, each theoretical concept seeks to label the learner. Attempting to categorize students can have unintended consequences, especially when valid, reliable, supportive assessments or processes are not included. Through reflection, I can identify aspects of various learning theories that align with my personal approach to lear...

Learning style refers to the method by which an individual prefers to engage with, process, and retain learned knowledge. Six weeks ago, I identified cognitive learning style as my desired approach to learning with a preference for engaging in peer-to-peer instruction. After a deep dive exploration of learning theories and personal reflection taken during that time, I considered the suggested argument of whether learning styles exist, became aware of the theory of mental intelligence, and took note of the concept of andragogy in association with adult or action learning. The exploration culminated with my acceptance of a reality where flexibility in how, why, and if learning occurs. Recognizing that prior knowledge, experience, and perception offer a foundation for learning, that independent concepts help to direct learning, and how environmental relationships influence how new concepts and knowledge are processed broadened my understanding of learning from the perspectives of both a l...

The distribution of an abundance of information through social networks to cultivate learning based upon existing knowledge, experiences, and perceptions encapsulates the basis of Siemens' theory of connectivism (Laureate Education (Producer), n.d.). Rich networks that are made available through advancing technology provide the broad social dimensions that gird the basic concepts of the learning theory. These networks affect how individuals learn professionally and socially. The following mind map visually demonstrates the networks that influence how, when, and why I learn. Technologically, existing search engines provide immediate access to valid information and data ranging from language enunciation to research. This is my go-to when I have questions relating to any subject. New information is often introduced asynchronously through social media networks, including Facebook, and Instagram, which I choose to validate through internet searches. LinkedIn networks often provide artic...

Problem Solving  Life is full of problems. The challenge lies in how we work to solve them. Formulating judgment through a process of analysis and evaluation is a cognitive skill that develops over time and through experience. Problem-solving involves the use of  encoding, retrieval, and metacognition skills.   Encoding involves the process of identifying what the problem involves and determining the optimal solution for obtaining the best resolution. In short, how one determines what the problem involves and identifying the best end result is considered the process of encoding.  Retrieval is one's ability to recall information that has been stored within long-term memory and is related to the problem at hand. Metacognition is the process of "thinking about thinking". Self-monitoring the problem-solving process to determine the level of progress and if the approach to achieving the optimal solution is effective. Problem-solving is essential to every aspect of our l...

A Great Place to Start Prior to taking a deep dive into the world of blogging, I sought to identify a few blog sites to serve as examples and provide a little inspiration. Two simple, but essential, criteria guided my search. The blog was required to 1. be current with a post within the last two to three months, and 2. demonstrate a focus on instructional design and learning. My search resulted in an abundant list of blogs relating to ID; however, a large number of blog sites found were dated. Thinking that others might have an interest in finding other sites, I offer the following three blog sites that piqued my interest along with a brief overview of if the publisher's focus for your review and consideration.  Dave's Whiteboard , published by Dave Ferguson, provides a public space where the author explores his professional interests and tweaks his ideas. Much of the content relates to learning, training, and performance improvement. The site launched in December of 2006 and t...