Mobile Phones Forum Reflection

As this was my first exposure to a wiki forum and the specific learning technique used in this forum, that is “De Bono’s Six Coloured Hats”, I found it quite interesting in the way that the discussion was set out. “De Bono’s” learning technique uses the example of different coloured hats in that wearing the different hats changes your perspective on the topic and makes you open to different sides to the subject. For example; wearing the Black hat, you become a critical and judgemental thinker, giving your opinion on where the specific topic is weakest or likely to fail (http://www.debonothinkingsystems.com/tools/6hats.htm).

The “Mobile Phone” forum is displayed in a table format helping to categorise the different “hats” or perspectives. This made it easier to speak with a specific perspective, agreeing or disagreeing with the arguments within that category. I found the topic to be quite interesting and debatable amongst my pears. Because it is such a debatable topic and an engaging way of discussion, I believe it has the qualities of connectivism. Connectavism could be observed at work during this forum demonstrated by the way each individual was prepared to engage with others in the discussion openly sharing their pears diverse view, beliefs and opinions. I also believe that Cognitivism is evident within this method of teaching as it encouraged positive engagement within the specific topic, required problem solving, thinking and memory of what they have previously learnt. The guiding questions within the forum make the assumptions that the participants have current knowledge of the subject matter and that they will be able to provide their opinions from their previous experiences. This is basically the simple definition of Constructivism, as I understand it.

I felt quite comfortable with participating in the forum, to share my opinion and how I feel about the specific topic and to see  how my pears interpreted the issue. Categorising the different opinions help to focus on the specific major topics within the subject, so that the questions are definitely being addressed.