IJIET 2014 Vol.4(3): 254-259 ISSN: 2010-3689
DOI: 10.7763/IJIET.2014.V4.408
DOI: 10.7763/IJIET.2014.V4.408
Supporting Self-Directed Learning by Connectivism and Personal Learning Environments
P. W. Conradie
Abstract—The traditional learning approaches (i.e.
educational philosophies or paradigms) of behaviouralism,
humanism, cognitivism, social learning theory and
constructivism, have been the foundation of instructional design
and teaching practice. Connectivism, considered a learning
paradigm in its infancy by some and a learning theory by others,
augurs a more intrinsic approach for learning in the 21 century.
This study explores the perceptions of 76 higher education
learners regarding the use of a connectivism pedagogical
approach through the use of personal learning environments.
Forming part of a project to evaluate the effectiveness of
personal learning environments to support self-directed
learning, and thus indirectly self-regulated learning,
semi-structured interviews was utilized. Results obtained
include improve learner motivation, engagement, collaboration
and self-actualization. Of special interest was the element of
self-actualization, generally associated with humanism. In
addition, learners found the new learning environment
challenging, requiring them to think critical about module
content. Self-directed learning, supported by the pedagogical
approach of connectivism and personal learning environments,
is postulated to be a crucial skill set for the 21 century learner.
Index Terms—Connectivism, self-directed learning, self-regulated learning, pedagogy.
P. W. Conradie is with Department of Information and Communication Technology, Vaal University of Technology, South Africa (e-mail: pieterc@vut.ac.za).
Index Terms—Connectivism, self-directed learning, self-regulated learning, pedagogy.
P. W. Conradie is with Department of Information and Communication Technology, Vaal University of Technology, South Africa (e-mail: pieterc@vut.ac.za).
Cite: P. W. Conradie, "Supporting Self-Directed Learning by Connectivism and Personal Learning Environments," International Journal of Information and Education Technology vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 254-259, 2014.