George Siemens interview

George Siemens is the author of Knowing Knowledge and the recently released Handbook of Emerging Technologies for Learning. He is also associate director of research and development with the Learning Technologies Centre at the University of Manitoba and is the founder and president of Complexive Systems Inc., a learning lab focused on helping organizations develop integrated learning structures to meet the needs of global strategy execution.

Here, Lisa Neal Gualtieri, Editor-in-Chief, eLearn Magazine interviews George. He answers 5 questions on (1) the education system, (2) the role of pre-constructed models for learning, (3) the skills people need to learn today, (4) the importance of recognizing essential information (and how to teach that), and (5) advice for those developing or delivering e-learning. Here’s his answer to #5:

Approaches to learning design, development, and delivery will obviously vary by discipline, grade/age level, and the context in which learning will be delivered. To simplify the process, I’d recommend designers consider three elements:
1. Context: Nothing influences learning design more than the context in which the learning will occur. Corporations can not assume broadband connectivity when delivering training to global audiences. Language and cultural distinctions are important. The technical skill level of the trainers and the learners is also important. And, as information is increasingly represented in specific environments, alternative learning experiences through mobile devices, simulations, and virtual worlds becomes important.
2. Connections: Knowledge is distributed across social and technological networks. Learning involves growing and exploring those networks. Learning design, therefore, is primarily concerned with assisting learners in building the capacity to participate in networks. Learners should be able to access information and experts when needed.
3. Choice: Designers cannot anticipate the full spectrum of learner needs. As a result, choice and variety are important. Choice must be reflected in terms of variety, pace, modality (online, mobile), and degree of support (mentorship, self-guided). Rather than detailing a pathway through material, learners should have the option to wayfind through utilization of personal and social networks. In this model, learners continue to have access to required resources (and their social and information network) after a course has concluded.

(JC)

Five Questions….For George Siemens | eLearn Magazine | Lisa Neal Gualtieri | 21 April 2009

Tagged as: E-learning, inst