A personal vision of learning and Web 2.0

A personal theory of learning with Web 2.0

The most salient point of all the theories concerning “how humans learn” is the constructivist idea that new learning can only be assimilated onto old knowledge. As each one of us has a unique set of learned concepts, singular facts, etc. we can learn only by attaching something new to our existing knowledge framework. Web 2.0 gives us as learners a venue to approach new information socially, thereby assimilating through observation and modeling of others with which we share our Web 2.0 experiences. Web 2.0 experiences are found through all formats, not just data that is read on a screen. Web 2.0 is audio and video. Web 2.0 learning provides the means to teach all, no matter the learning style they prefer. Web 2.0 content can be created and published for all in a matter of seconds by anyone, no matter what assistive technologies were used to channel the thoughts onto the web.
Web 2.0 is social media based on the input of many members of groups. It has evolved from the original Web 1.0 that was published only by a few who exercised some authority over the availability and dissemination of information held in their sites. Web 2.0 is created by many and is freely shared and updated.
The active learner assimilates new information through socially interacting with others who share similar interests and goals. The collective schemata of group members is harnessed to disseminate evenly among its members all that is known and understood. The world of knowledge and understanding can become better in that everyone can share a more perfect grasp on the world. Web 2.0 provides a venue for this phenomenon. Learning by observing others, modeling their behaviors and understanding, is the very definition of social learning. Web 2.0 is the very definition of social media. Therefore, it can be confidently stated that social media is the venue for learning.