Blog Assignment: Mapping Your Learning Connections

Click image to enlarge.

Reflection

I have brainstormed before for papers, and for working on projects, and it is extremely valuable when getting your ideas out. I created this mind map to include some of the things I think are significant to me. These things were interesting to pull out, especially the things regarding career, and learning. I learned that there are more issues that populate the more I jot down thoughts and ideas. This helped to provide a visual representation of where everything falls into place.

In a mind map, in contrast to traditional note taking or a linear text, information is structured in a way that resembles much more closely how your brain works. Since it is an activity that is both analytical and artistic, it engages your brain in a considerably richer way, helping in all its cognitive functions. And, best of all, it is fun! (What is Mindmapping, http://litemind.com/what-is-mind-mapping/)

In the absence of a physical appearance of an instructor, I have learned better when there are outside experts speaking about the topics we study. Being introduced to embedded lectures at Walden University is a welcome change of pace from reading and articles that are more time-consuming. It does help to have a physical presence speaking about ideas for the week. In addition, the informal lectures are not just readings from a lecture book. They are the thoughts and input on the topic at hand from a knowledgeable expert. This is a tool that can further assist in learning when the course work is an unfamiliar path.

When I am in a rough spot, questions on how to process are at hand. I do ask questions when I feel a loss of information. At the risk of sounding like someone without a compass, I do try to figure things out on my own to a degree. In learning, as well as in personal work and experience, I feel that questions are like an obstacle or task that needs to be knocked down. The more questions I encounter, or a problem, the more I feel like brick walls that need knocking over.

Learning has been a much better experience when the connectivity from other people assists in the process. Already the class for ID is full of experts and teachers, and educators. Many of them have the credentialing for their skills and knowledge. In addition, those who are knowledgeable have the experience to back up their input. I have taken bits and pieces from those who have the motivations and desires to talk about something we learn, and used it as my own learning.

References

What is Mind Mapping? (and How to Get Started Immediately). (n.d.). Litemind. Retrieved July 22, 2012, from http://litemind.com/what-is-mind-mapping/