To start this post, I will say that I feel this week has been near overwhelming in the amount of new information that I have mentally processed. To this stage, I am still uncertain of how formal this blog is supposed to be. I may come back and reiterate at a later stage if I don't find my work appropriate. As far as the course goes, I am quite surprised after reading through the content that it is so oriented on Learning Theories and Frameworks. I understand the correlation, but it still surprised me. In saying that, I have found all the content very interesting and this has definitely helped to ease the workload.
I find this process of enjoyment easing learning a fascinating concept. Whilst viewing the optional Prenksy reading (in relation to a computer game being developed to assist in the learning of CAD software) prescribed in the course material, I was forced to think of my own experiences as a learner and realised how vastly applicable this concept is. After completing the reading, it is starkly obvious to me that engaging in an activity that disguises cognitive load in the form of entertainment is going to help your learning, but doing it by using technology (which is a primary 'language' of so called 'digital natives') it promotes a strong learning environment that has been (hopefully) successful in achieving the task.
I also took both the Multiple Theories test and the Learning Styles test and the results really did not surprise me. I know how I learn best and the areas I excel in.
As far as learning theories go, I found the readings a little confusing. I think this is mainly due to the text saying three learning theories will be investigated, then immediately below that four headings are listed. At first glance I thought this meant that those four headings were all part of one learning theory (similar to the way the Multiple Intelligences are broken down). After completing the readings and activities however, I think I understand much more clearly. Also, with the activities, the hands on experience of using the small games on the linked site gave me a much better understanding on the separation of the grey areas between the listed theories. This furthered my interest in the Prensky test.
In closing, I feel I have learned a lot of the previous week, and I believe this post will be a valuable record for myself (or others reading this blog) of my experience.
Please feel free to comment.
Tyson
