238: Pioneering the Path to Connectivism, MOOCs, and Learning Analytics with George Siemens

Dr. George Siemens is professor at the University of Texas at Arlington and director of the Centre for Change and Complexity in Learning (C3L) at the University of South Australia. He’s an internationally known author and speaker who has delivered keynote addresses in more than 35 countries. He’s also a researcher and theorist in the field of learning, knowledge management, and technology. George is recognized for developing the learning theory of connectivism as well as for his pioneering work in learning analytics and the development of massive open online courses (MOOCs). And he’s continued to develop and deliver MOOCs, including one now on helping instructors new to online make the pivot necessitated by COVID-19. In this episode of the Leading Learning Podcast, Celisa talks with George about connectivism—the theoretical framework he developed for understanding learning in a digital age. They also discuss the strengths and limitations of MOOCs as well as the potential positive and negative impacts of learning analytics with practical insight on how to begin using them in your organization. Full show notes available at https://www.leadinglearning.com/episode238.