Connectivism

Connectivism is a learning theory that explains how Internet technologies have created new opportunities for people to learn and share information across the World Wide Web and among themselves. These technologies include Web browsers, email, wikis, online discussion forums, social networks, YouTube, and other tools that enable users to learn and share information with others.

A key feature of connectivism is that much of the learning that can take place in peer networks occurs online. In connectivism learning, a teacher will guide students to obtain information and answer key questions as needed, in order to support students learning and sharing on their own. Students are also encouraged to search for information on their own online and disclose what they find. Connected communities around this shared information often emerge.

The phenomenon of Mass Open Online Course (MOOC) comes from connectivism theory. In connectivism MOOC (cMOOC), it is open to anyone who wishes to register, using software and open systems across the Web to facilitate learning and sharing, it occurs primarily online, and it occurs according to a defined curriculum for a designated period of time. While the facilitator guides the cMOOC, the participants are largely responsible for what they learn and what and how they share it; this connected behavior largely helps create course content.