Thursday, February 24, 2011

Week 6-Blog (February 21-27, 2011)

This week's reading along with our discussion questions have helped facilitate the learning objectives for me. I believe that Professor Ge's questions, though time consuming, have helped me to reflect on what I am learning and thus increased my understanding of the objectives. Learning the difference between the objectivist and constructivist theories has helped me begin to understand the different learning theories/philosophies and place them in a better "perspective." ...Reflective learning-Constructivism (Adult Learning Theory, Nursing).

Having background knowledge of the theory and philosophy that guides e-learning (online learning) has helped me comprehend even more clearly the theory and philosophy that guides my nursing profession. Although educational psychology and nursing education have different theorist, it is comforting to know that many of our theories and beliefs stem from these basic concepts, philosophies, and theories. What I think is important is that e-learning or online learning can integrate different contextual perspectives (frameworks) under the same theory, constructivism. This enhances and promotes understanding and learning and enriches our lives.

I found after reading thus far that there are bits and pieces from each theory that I believe fits every learner depending on the learner's objectives, state of knowing, need and perspective. I think it will be a matter of taking a look at these theories and finding what fits our students' needs most appropriately given the contextual framework of the assigned material.

3 comments:

  1. I agree. There are bits and pieces from each theory that fits every learner. All the theories overlap to a degree. I am more of a constructivist learner. This whole session has taught me that everyone is different. One of our objectives is to understand our students and how they learn and to also become a mentor and not an authoritarian. Good job on the summary. Suzanne

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  2. Thank Suzanne. I really do want to adopt a more cooperative learning style that will help my students learn and especially help them with critical thinking. I know we share this as a goal. Thanks for your comments.

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  3. I've enjoyed reading your posts and discussion this week. A cooperative learning style seems like an excellent skill for nurses to acquire considering how much they must cooperate in the working environment. Communication, communication, communication... right?

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