Statement of the Problem for Darrow, Suzanne_ Connectivism Learning Theory_Instructional Tools for College Courses

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Connectivism Learning Theory:Instructional Tools for College CoursesbySuzanne DarrowA Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment for a

Master‟s Degree in Education

ED 591 Independent Thesis ResearchWestern Connecticut State UniversityDanbury, CTSpring 2009COPYRIGHT 2009 SUZANNE DARROWCONTACT:SUZANNEDARROW@GMAIL.COMT

HIS WORK IS LICENSED UNDER A

C

C

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iiAbstract

This qualitative thesis explores the work of George Siemens and connectivist learning theory, „ALearning Theory for the Digital Age‟. Findings are based on a

literature review whichinvestigated the foundations, strengths and weaknesses of connectivism and synthesizedconclusions into a knowledge base of practical applications for the college level, InstructionalTechnology classroom. The half-life of knowledge is shrinking, especially in the field of Instructional Technology; connectivism helps to ensure students remain current by facilitating thebuilding of active connections, utilizing intelligent social networking and encouraging student-generated curricula. Connectivism allows the future of education to be viewed in an optimistic,almost utopian perspective, as individuals co-create knowledge in a global, networkedenvironment.

iiiTable of ContentsAbstract

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..iiI. Introduction

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....1Background/Overview

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....1Statement of the Problem

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8Research Questions

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8Definition of Terms

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.8Limitations of the Study

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9Need or Significa

nce………………………………………………………………………

...9

Researcher‟s Perspec

t

ive………………………………………………………………….

..10II. Review of Literature

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. .11III. Methodology

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29Research Design and Rationale

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.34IV. Findings

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.38V.

Discussion……………………………………………………………………………………

..50

References………………………………………………………………………………………..

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