This is the framework that I created to make sense of the numerous, diverse tools available for PKM:

The framework is based on Van Weigel’s curricular capabilities model. His article was more of a critique about current course management systems but I felt that his learner-centered model was also useful as an organizational framework for educational technology. So, I adopted his model of grounding my PKM system.
It started off as way of categorizing the software so as to aid the teacher and student in selecting online tools they can use to build a good PKM system. But, as I listened to another presentation at the conference, I realized that I could pair this framework with Kolb’s learning cycle to further extend on the framework. I will present this topic at University of Louisville Celebration of Teaching and Learning and I plan to include the updated framework at that conference.

Yet another blog about technology in higher education?

As you can see from the blogroll, there is a number of ed tech blogs. What makes this blog different is the use of knowledge management principles to create a framework for educators in selecting and using educational technology. Starting from Van Wiegel’s curricular capabilites, this framework will emphasize critical thinking, peer learning, and portfolios in the new college classroom. Higher education is rapidly changing and the old lecture hall is just not enough for learning in the 21st century.

So this blog is more than just about using technology in higher ed. What I hope to accomplish is a new way of teaching and learning. Please tell me how I am doing and make sure to keep checking back.

P.S. In the next week or so, I will be launching a companion wiki that will catalog and review online technologies useful for PKM and teaching.