Networked collaborative learning

In this topic I will try to answer the question on the case scenario:
How to get people to really recognize the value of becoming part of a learning community?

I think the question is complicated and may not be just
one answer to it but different answers from different perspectives.

But because of time and the limited level of research in this work I will focus on the work of the article Collaborative Learning and Connectivism. The work is based on Siemens (2005, see http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/675/1271)

This article presents Siemens’ (2005)
concept of connectivism which recognizes the impact of technology in our way of
getting knowledge. From his point of view e-learning is no dependent on acquiring,
storage and retrieval of knowledge like in traditional learning, but it relies
more on the connected learning that occurs through interaction with various
sources of knowledge and participation in communities of common interest,
social networks and group tasks.

Siemens learning theory is about connectivity,
which means individuals connecting with each other and by the means of different
technological tools. Connectivism recognize that in online learning environment,
seeking and constructing knowledge is most often accomplice through interaction
and dialogue. This principle may be a key factor to engage learners in been
part of at learning community and realize the value of becoming a part of learning
community. This may be attained by creating learning environment where learners
can participate in collaborative ways work which can help them to be part of
the learning community and create social networks in a short period of time. I
think that engaging people with connectivity methods and network activities may
help them to realize the importance of been part of the learning community.

By reading this article and by own experience in participating in ONL191. I conclude that it takes time to get adjust to work in a community and recognize the value of becoming part of a learning community. To achieve that insight we need connectivity among the members of the grout, we need to share more or less the same goals, we need to have relatively the same level of digital literacy, we need to make connection on the PLN, we need to be able to remix the material, and must important of all, we need commitment to succeed in any online group activity.   

It is also good to remember that knowledge, digital literacy, and information technology are always changing which means we need to adapt all the time; we need to be open to learn new things and be ready to do it in new and different ways and make commitments with co-participants in new courses.

To be part of learning communities we need to be part of the flow.