After reviewing Dr. Harapuikne's video and document, we face a fundamental dilemma as teachers: Are we simply collecting or truly connecting dots? It is interesting to reflect on whose metaphor demonstrates the difference between the accumulation of information and proper interconnected understanding, which is crucial to understanding the nature of meaningful learning. For years, traditional education, in many ways, has been rooted in the "collect points" paradigm. It has focused on memorizing facts, formulas, and isolated concepts to obtain qualifications and certifications.
An example of this can be seen when having to comply with all the standardized tests required by the state. However, with its constant changes, contemporary society demands an educational approach that transcends collecting dots and embraces "connecting the dots." In this sense, connecting the dots involves not only understanding the information superficially but also discerning how it relates to other concepts, how it is applied in different contexts, and how it can influence thought and action, as Dwayne puts it in his analogy of journey highlighting the need to identify landmarks and critical stages.
Now, as a student, I am on a journey through ADL where, through guidelines planned by my teachers, I am building knowledge through the COVA approach, where I can be autonomous and develop self-regulation skills of learning. Now, as a teacher, I am moving towards an education that promotes the connection of dots over the collection of dots. However, I developed a more interactive and student-centered approach without ceasing to comply with what is established in the pre-kindergarten and my institution's guidelines. This involves adopting active methodologies that encourage exploration, discovery, and collaboration, allowing students to absorb information and actively participate in its construction. Additionally, I encourage critical thinking and problem-solving daily in my class so that my students can understand individual concepts, see how they intertwine, and apply them in real-world situations—in other words, focused on creating meaningful learning environments to the extent possible, where the learner has choice, ownership, voice and agency over their learning. Moreover, I will continue in the power process of connecting the dots, aligning results, activities, and assessments to transform education into a meaningful and transformative experience that prepares students to face the challenges of the modern world with creativity, adaptability, and deep understanding.
References
Harapnuik, D. (2016) Collecting dots vs connecting dots. https://youtu.be/_7o3Jh1KZLw
Harapnuik,D.(2023) Mapping your Learners Journey - http://www.harapnuik.org/?p=6420
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