I have found the chapters and research done for module three very interesting. After wandering around in the social sites, such as Second Life, I think the statement from the text that virtual interactions can be interpreted as social transformations is true. The rapid transformation in economic, family, technology and culture have evidently has been a field day for social and political theorists. How do virtual communities impact individuals in information seeking and knowledge construction? I think both positively and negatively. Depending on what techniques or avenues the individual uses to gather knowledge, the result can be the difference of sound knowledge or junk. I feel that virtual communities can lead to social isolation due to the stimulation the community provides replaces interaction with actual people.
In looking at building a virtual learning community I have considered a professional development community between my technology center and the 9 partner high school. What are the specific implications that you have drawn that can be applied to your project of building a virtual learning community? Chapter 10 offered a framework to work with, which started with assessment, which could be the beginning or the end. I have also considered whether a virtual community would be a better communication process for a group of like instructors ( PN Directors?), would this be better than face to face meetings or even distance supported meetings? Just some thoughts......
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Well said, Linda. I, to, think about what type of virtual learning community would assist the two year ADN student. Many options are open to them now for exercises to expand their thinking processes and most use them frequently, so with that said, experimenting with designing a virtual community to meet other needs may be an option. Perhaps designing something that enhances critical thinking exercises referring to their current theory class?
ReplyDeleteI agree, if a person limits themselves to virtual learning communities they can risk the feelings of isolation.
ReplyDeleteI watched some videos through youtube about nursing education in Second Life and was very intrigued with the possible interactivity and ability to teach critical thinking in a simulation situation.