Technology Blog #1 Developing a Connected Learning Model: Connections and Relevance to Artistic Career

Chapter 2, Developing a Connected Learning Model, covers what a connected learning model is, as well as the strategies for creating one and how one could further develop current ideas and strategies in professional environments. The connected learning model is described as innovative and useful for the 21st century, expanding upon the model of professional learning communities. This chapter dives into how connected learning communities can utilize professional learning communities, personal learning networks, and communities of practice or inquiry as well as what each of these encompasses. The connected learning model can be utilized to further education and connections in any career, making it flexible and useful everywhere. 

          Professional learning communities are school structures where instructors can work with students to help them achieve more and feel motivated to progress. Web tools are very useful in these communities, where educators can implement them to reach students in a unique way. Personal learning networks differ, due to a change towards focus to community and strategy advancement between the educators themselves. The incorporation of technology into personal learning networks in this new model allows for educators to reach others more easily and have more resources to go off of from the internet. Connectivism is an idea proposed by George Siemens that ties into this, in which the connections provided by the digital age can improve teachers’ abilities to educate themselves and others and stay motivated. Communities of practice differ from both other communities as they are for people with common interests who share information with one another and combine their skills to further advance ideas and create a more solid approach. The chapter then provides readers with the research that led to this model, and what the connecting learning model can do in the long run, creating a “think tank” that anyone is available to reach and learn from, with the operation of technology. Finally, the importance and allowance for diversity that is available with the connected learning model is put into spotlight by the authors, explaining how diversity allows for greater learning opportunities. 

          As a visual arts major, the connected learning model will be useful to me no matter which direction my career takes me. If I were to work for a company or individuals who need art for any reason, personal learning networks would be very advantageous to me with strategies assisting me in workplace relationships, as well as online ones in a similar space. Freelance work, which is most promising to me in my future career, relies heavily on the communities of practice and inquiry part of the approach. Taking my ideas to other professional artists with similar medium and concept interests to me can help better my work through feedback, as well as share online resources that can improve my art as well as professional reach to customers and organizations. I am currently working on this approach leading up to my graduation, where connections make all the difference in being successful as an artist, and taking constructive criticism and suggestions from those around me. Shared studio spaces and artist residencies are two great ways to further this community aspect in person.