RSS (Really Simple Syndication)

Setting up my RSS feed using Google Reader was not as difficult as first expected. At the expense of sounding a little naive I have to admit that I had never heard of RSS feeds or aggregators before commencing this course. I can now happily divulge that an RSS aggregator (or reader) acts as a single website or home that allows the user to keep up with the increasing amount of information that is available on the internet. By adding subscriptions to your reader (these could be blogs or websites) you save valuable time by allowing new information and posts (feeds) to come to you.

I have addressed the benefits of using of blogs within the classroom environment in my previous entry. RSS applications would be a fast, easy and effective way for teachers to engage in, manage and monitor student collaboration using this tool. The use of ICT's as a social network is highlighted by Siemens (2004) theory of Connectivism. He discusses the acquisition of knowledge as something that begins with the individual, who then feeds information into a network, which then feeds into organisations and back again. This 'cycle of knowledge development' (Siemens, 2004) benefits the individual learner as they continue to receive knowledge through the connections they have formed. What a great way for Learning Managers to engage and enhance student learning in the Digital Age.

Reference
Siemens, G. (2004). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. Retreived July 25, 2009, from http://www.elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm