Developing an Online Learning Network about Coffee - Case Study Example

Developing an Online Learning Network about Coffee Critical Reflection Name Institution Table of Contents Table of Contents 2 Introduction 3 Overview of the Network 3 Skills Developed by Participation in the Network 5 Evaluation of the Quality of Resources within the Network 5 Participants on the Network and how they Work 6 Summary of the Contributions of the Network 6 Conclusion 7 References 8 Introduction This research is a critical reflection about an online network based on an area of interest, and, in this case, coffee. The reflection examines how the network contributes to the learning area by giving an overview of the network, analyzing the skills that can be developed by participating in the network and evaluates the quality of resources within the network. Further, the reflection offers a breakdown of the participants of the network and how they participate in the network, summarizes the contributions of the network by use of appropriate examples and reflects on how the network contributes to the learning environment. Overview of the Network Networks are considered as good atmosphere for carrying out informal learning, as well as professional growth. To allow a continuous learning of environments, networked setups have been developed by companies, individuals and organizations. The learning networks aims at promoting knowledge development and knowledge sharing in all organizations (Joliffe, Allan, Ritter, Jonathan, Steven, & David, 2012). These networks are widely used with the help of web-based tools and environments. The increased use of the social media has led to increased means and extent at which people are interacting. This great evolution has resulted in a necessity for online network to build up learning networks (Saad, 2009). A learning network is a technology –aided community where learners share information and finally develop new knowledge. For instance, an online learning network can assist in acquiring information and new knowledge about coffee. Technology is providing tools to individual learners to generate their PLN (Personal Learning Networks) to aid them in informal learning. PLN can assist in finding information about coffee, for instance, the best coffee in world, the available coffee species, and other information in relation to coffee. A personal learning network consists of persons from whom a learner interacts with and gets information. A person creates a connection with another person with an intention that some learning will occur. The crucial part of this idea is connective, which was established by Stephen Downes and George Siemens (Author, 2013). The major thing in online learning is for a learner to donate and obtain knowledge through a variety of nodes. The learner makes a choice of whom they want to interact with and how to participate. Normally, learners get into personal learning networks having specific goals, interests, motivations, needs and problems which are presented to the people included in their PLN. The student will develop a strong relationship with some members and have weak connections with others. The progressive squash of ultra-fast broadband in learning institutions will change the ways in which schools and teachers introduce learning to the students (National Learning Network, British Educational Communications & Technology Agenc, 2002). Development of ultra-broadband in schools will assist educators and learners access online network. Online learning network will make learning to be flexible, mobile and self-directed. Research and investigations are conducted to help teachers understand the digital learning technologies to advance the student’s outcome. The network will help students make their research during the studies which are a more innovative and dynamic way. Learners can conduct their research on the common coffee species, and they would like to find means to develop it or come up with more species. Learner can achieve this through engaging in learning network where they can share information on how come with more species. Further, the network is an important academic tool which is providing modern learning atmosphere and improving learning, as well as, teaching (Engdahl, 2007). Online learning network makes studies more personalized and engaging. There is a need to develop a healthy and a meaningful online learning network. In learning about coffee, a learning network is very crucial to assist in giving updated information about coffee. Skills Developed by Participation in the Network Online learning networks provide a high social learning environment which is characterized by interactions and participation of the learners and the instructors. In gathering information about coffee through online learning systems, it becomes easier to get the information since there are interactions. Social learning has important ways to assist learners acquire experience in teamwork and increase skills in critical reasoning, co-construction of knowledge and self-reflection (Kearsley, 2005). Core competencies gained from learning networks include co-creation meaning and knowledge, expansion of critical thinking, reflection and transformative learning. An additional skill gained from learning networks is enhancing teamwork. An online learning network seeks for learners who have the ability to create efficient online communities. For instance, when seeking information and knowledge about coffee, the learner should be able to build an active online community to assist in gathering all the information that is required Evaluation of the Quality of Resources within the Network There is a requirement for continuous evaluation of learning networks. This assessment monitors information of inner flows, although it examines information from other levels which include: quality of learning outcome and relationship established between associates. It is crucial for the evaluation to elucidate its aim. It evaluates what individual members gained and whether online learning is has been used. Participants on the Network and how they Work In online learning, there are two broad categories of participation which include lurking or non-public involvement and public involvement. Lurkers join the learning network, but they do not contribute. On the other hand, posters or public participants are those that join the virtual community but openly share their opinions and beliefs. Probably, there are some online communities that are dedicated to discussing coffee growing. In these communities, public participants are the specialists in the field of coffee growing who provides insights and answers. Lurkers are those who use the community to questions to the posters. Summary of the Contributions of the Network There are numerous contributions that been made by online learning network which have this form of learning popular. This environment offers an opportunity to people who could have missed a chance to education. To begin with, it form of learning can be conducted in place. There is virtual classroom which are accessed 24 hours. Time efficiency is also an advantage that comes with online learning. Learners can access their courses at any time. Online learning allows interactions between the students and the instructor. There is sharing of ideas and resources which brings continuous synergy throughout the learning process. Each has a chance to contribute to the discussion and comment on other people’s work. The synergy that subsist in the virtual classrooms is on the most important and unique trait in this form of learning. Online learning is student –centered as a student has an opportunity to respond to the course materials such as course books and lectures. Students comments and responds to the topics that are within their individual concerns. In this case, a student can check all the conversations and questions relating to coffee. The learner will share information relating to coffee as this is the learners are of interest. The student will go through all conversations but will actively engage with only the one relating to coffee. Additionally, distinguished students and experts from other can be online classes can easily include. People who have special knowledge in coffee can be involved during the discussion to provide the required information. Conclusion In conclusion, networks are considered as good atmosphere for carrying out informal learning, as well as professional growth. A learning network is a technology –aided community where learners share information among them and finally develop new knowledge. Online learning network will make learning to be flexible, mobile and self-directed. In addition, online learning networks provide a high social learning environment which is characterized by interactions and participation of the learners and the instructors. An online learning network requires continuous evaluation to check on the quality of information and resources provided. There are two participants in online learning: posters and lurkers. Online learners have given lot contributions which include time efficiency, synergy and student-centeredness among other contributions. References Author, G. (2013, January 17). “20 Tips for Creating a Professional Learning Network. Retrieved March 25, 2015, from Getting Smart: http://gettingsmart.com/2013/01/20-tips-for-creating-a-professional-learning-network/ Jolliffe, Allan, Ritter, Jonathan, Steven, & David. (2012). The Online Learning Handbook: Developing & Using Web-based Learning. Singapore: Routledge,. Kearsley, G. (2005). Online Learning: Personal Reflections on the Transformation of Education. Educational Technology, 2005. National Learning Network, British Educational Communications & Technology Agenc. (2002). Creating Online Learning Material: A Good Practice Guide. Becta, 2002 . Saad, D. (2009). On-Line Learning in Neural Networks. Cambridge University Press. Read More