Social Media and Open/Networked Learning

This is the online space for EDST 499K: Social Media and Open/Networked Learning. This seminar is offered in Kelowna, BC, August 9-13, 2010 by UBC Okanagan. The instructor for the course is Dr. Alec Couros from the University of Regina.

This seminar will provide an immersive experience where students gain practical skills and knowledge of social media for teaching, learning, and professional development. Blogs, wikis, microblogging, RSS, social bookmarking, and content/media sharing will be explored. The seminar will also focus on the changing views of knowledge in the current information environment, emerging literacies, and the development of personal learning networks.

Course Objectives:
Students will gain experience, understanding, and skill in regards to:

  • changing perceptions of knowledge within the proclaimed “information age”;
  • information, media, and network literacies;
  • the use of technology in K12, Higher Education, and informal learning environments;
  • development of personal learning networks for professional development and teaching, and learning; and,
  • the open movement in education.

Course Assignments:
The following assignment are required for successful completion of this course:

  • Course Blog – Each student will create and utilize a blog for sharing of reflections, critique, evaluations and ideas. Types of relevant posts may include:
    • descriptions of learning through experimentation related to the seminar;

    • reactions, critique, reflection, and/or expansion of ideas from other theorists, educators, classmates, or colleagues;
    • sharing of created or discovered resources and tools, with annotation or commentary; and,
    • novel ideas or reflections gained from activities or readings.

    Seminar discussions will outline the basics and best-practice of edublogging including writing style, tone, audience, profiles, linkbacks, use of media, commenting, tagging, and privacy options.

  • PLN Development – The seminar will assist students in better understanding and seeding the development of a personal learning network (PLN). It is hoped that students will initiate the development of a PLN with the goal of sustained practice, professional reflection, and maintenance of useful linkages to other connected educators. Students will also be asked to reflect on the concept of personal learning networks/environments in class as these may apply to teaching, learning, and professional development. Evidence for this assignment will likely be represented through a number of activities, and thus students should create a reflective document listing and describing key interactions.
  • In-Class Activities – Students are expected to fully participate in conversations, experimentation, and assigned activities in the course. The course will deal with the development of academic & technical understandings, however, existing mindsets are likely to be challenged. I encourage the critique of ideas put forth within the seminar, but also pursue the development of open mindsets regarding technology & media.

    The seminar end with a final culminating activity where students will present Pecha Kucha style presentations reflecting on their learning experience.

Evaluation and Grading:
Seminar assessment is based upon a pass/fail system. Specific grades will not be assigned, yet a 73% is the expectation for a passing evaluation.

Final assessment is based upon:

  • Course Blog – 40%
  • PLN Development – 20%
  • In-Class Activities – 40%