At this stage the discussion on groups and networks seems to come down to two views:
- Stephen’s view “groups require unity and networks require diversity. Groups require coherence, networks require autonomy and so on” Downes (2007)
- George’s view that groups are one type of network where the context is critical. A critical difference though is that networks encourage the autonomy of the self where groups often result in the subsuming of the self. Siemens (2008)
It will be interesting to see where my first discussion topic in the Moodle Forum goes. Here I’ve posed a question re context: the structure(s) we set up for teaching and learning (a group or a network) will depend on the context and the required outcomes. Often the same “group” eg a class, will operate in the different modes depending on what’s happening – as a group for safety issues, as a network to solve a problem.
October 9, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Educators also need to be aware of the legal issues regarding these wonderful ideas of networks and the social components involved with them.
I agree the possibilities of providing both within a classroom depending upon the students needs/abilities and the task at hand is vital for success, however many districts have little room for exploration of new technologies without student safety being the number one priority.
Just as a balance between groups and networks need to be found, so does a balance between learning and safety using these approaches also needs to be found.
October 12, 2008 at 10:22 am
Thanks Tom for the comment. The concept of safety varies with the context. In my original post it was meant to be about how we teach, say apprentice electricians, to adopt safe work practices for themselves, their colleagues and their clients.
I’m guessing your concept of safety refers more to school aged students where teachers have an increasingly difficult duty of care in use of the Internet.
It would be interesting to note how the groups and networks discussion this week would deal with the question of safety and duty of care.