Presentation to ANU's Learning Communities group on the topic of "Creating and Supporting Online and Dispersed Communities", 4 May 2011, Burton & Garran Hall, ANU

1. LEARNING COMMUNITIESOpportunities for network learning and connected knowledge Professor Robert Fitzgerald Inspire Centre for ICT Pedagogy and Practice University of Canberra Creating and Supporting Online and Dispersed Communities, 4 May 2011, Burton & Garran Hall, ANU

2. Key ideas ICT for … learning; communication; collaboration; development Social learning – supporting different connections between people and knowledge; from user to producer Technology as an “object to think with” (Seymour Papert); an “evocative object” (Sherry Turkle) 2

3. “The learning process is about learning-to-be a practitioner rather than just learning about....” “…we need not simply more information, but people to assimilate, understand, and make sense of it.” “…we must develop not only the technical capability but also the intellectual capacity for transforming tacit pedagogical knowledge into commonly usable and visible knowledge” “We have an opportunity to change the way we create and exchange information, knowledge, and culture [and offer greater] opportunities for cultural self-reflection and human connection.”

4. Supporting informal learning "The worst thing a kid can say about homework is that it is too hard. The worst thing a kid can say about a game is it's too easy." Henry Jenkins BUT “quick, somebody turn something on… I'm starting to think.” Homer Simpson 4

5. Key ideas Learning communities – based on interest where learning is more like a hobby Boundary crossing and expansive learning (Engestrom) Blurring the edges – expert/novice, professional/personal, pro am revolution, fandom, citizen journalism Technology as an amplifier Can we become more human…realer than real (cf Brian Massumi, 1987) 5

6. A design lens for learning communities Focus our attention, not narrow our focus Source: Mishra, P., & Koehler, M. J. (2006). Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge: A new framework for teacher knowledge. Teachers College Record. 108(6), 1017-1054. 6

7. Conclusion As you consider ways to create and support online and dispersed communities, keep in mind how you will: Balance technology, knowledge and learning (cf TPACK) Value diversity and see “difference” as a resource for your community Distribute leadership and administration Remain alert to the “tragedy of the commons” And remember… Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. Margaret Mead 7