Nov 03 2007
7-A-3 Responding to Connectivism
The following comments by Jay Cross found at http://bcefall07pls.wikispaces.com/PRO+Group seem to be contradictory to George Siemens’s ideals surrounding his connectivism theory. Mr. Cross states that “the bottom line is performance, not learning” and that “the group mind is your friend.” In a blog post made on October 4, 2007, Mr. Siemens expresses concern about the use of Web 2.0 to surround oneself with others who support one’s own thinking. http://connectivism.ca/blog/2007/09/on_distinctions_between_change.html
Therefore, the “group mind” can be any group that an individual chooses to identify with and not necessarily a group created with a balanced perspective.
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After I read Jay Cross’ comment I was confused too. I also felt it seemed contradictory. I had to look around to actually confirm if he agreed with Siemens or not. The statement that the “bottom line is performance” doesn’t seem to support a theory, but I think that when he writes about “the us” and “the group mind” he means all of us and not necessarily a particular group. If he meant a particular group, I think he would say “a group mind” instead of “the group mind.” What do you think?
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That’s a good point. Funny how one article can make a difference in interpretation; however, he makes the statement, “There is no dishonor in taking advantage of knowledge that’s stored outside your head. I have relinquished control over my decisions to the universal mind.” He goes on to list how he will be present (ala Steinbeck) as a small part of every network. Then Cross finishes with the comment “better steamline your connections to the group mind.” I think that he is being critical of connectivism rather than supporting it. How do you interpret these comments?