#CCK11 Expansionist Learning, Situated Learning, COP & Connectivist Learning

An Introduction to Activity Theory by Ian Robertson

Activity Theory is a powerful tool through which various stakeholders can engage in description and analysis using a common language that moves beyond individual or group preferences.  Where members of the relevant activity systems engage in discussion, debate and reflection expansionist learning is possible.

Engestrom Yrjo explains:

Activity Theory:

– Brings in culture, to see human beings as culturally mediated, always embedded in some activities which has in its own tools, language, and community

–  An approach that is trying to radically expand our notion of what is the process of proper analysis or learning.

Situated Learning Theory and COP

In this situated learning, relationship, negotiation of meaning amongst community practitioners is important

Connectivism

The premise is that conversation and content is open.  George also mentions that to learn effectively at thAdd Videois digital age, you must network.

Here are the further resources on Connectivism (from course CCK11)

My reflection on the three learning theories:

Activity Theory

Our attempt to changes within institutional systems might be better understood through Activity Theory.  I think the Theory as a tool might be more useful for various stakeholders to engage and analyse at the system and network level.

Situated learning and COP

The negotiation of meaning in the learning process amongst practitioners is the basis for collaboration and cooperation in communities.  Relationships could also be fostered amongst members of the communities.  So, if we want to support and grow learners within communities, COP could be ideal for learning.

Connectivism

I have been focusing on Connectivism and Connective Knowledge in the CCK courses.  There are merits in networked learning, especially in a complex learning environment.  Learning could be self-organising, and emergent under such networked learning ecology.

Challenges

Power relations, accountability, openness, learner autonomy are the main challenges that educators and learners have to face and overcome in current educational and learning ecology.  Tools and technology would continue to play a significant “role” in the enhancement of learning experiences of educators and learners.

Conversation as learning is the common thread amongst all three theories.

Openness is essential for such conversation

Impact

All three theories mentioned would have an impact on the current institutional education system.

How would each of the theories tackle the challenges as mentioned?  Which theory adds the best value to personal learning, education system, networks and ecology?

Your call and verdict….  And why?

5 thoughts on “#CCK11 Expansionist Learning, Situated Learning, COP & Connectivist Learning”

  1. Pingback: #CCK11 Expansionist Learning, Situated Learning, COP … | learning|distance learning|online learning|distance learning course:learning net

  2. It is interesting to note how some learning commons resist professionalization and all its trappings, such as producer-consumer dichotomy, certification. For example, La Leche League keeps a very flat peer structure, and it’s a very conscious policy.

  3. Thanks Maria for your comments.

    I didn’t know this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Leche_League_International. This is a wonderful example in educating the public, through a flat-peer sharing structure, based on the notion of “take what you need, and leave the rest” on breastfeeding.
    The critic on the approach of promoting breastfeeding in such a way could be interpreted by others as mentioned:

    She suggests that LLLI and other pro-breastfeeding individuals/organizations paint mothers who do not breastfeed as cold and/or unresponsive to their children’s needs. She cites studies that, she argues, suggest that breastfeeding, while nutritionally useful to children, is not so absolutely essential to children’s well-being that it makes sense to demonize mothers who do not breastfeed

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