elearnspace

When we are in chaotic or complex environments, the activity of ordering and applying structure is often futile. Too many unknowns exist…too much is unsettled…unplanned or unanticipated consequences arise almost overnight. It’s almost impossible to apply order when change is rapid. In complex environments, our primary task moves from exerting our influence and creating the outcomes we desire, to seeking to make sense and understand the shape and nature of what we are encountering. When I look at initial examples of personal learning environments, many of the services suggested have changed or disappeared. Same with first web 2.0 diagrams. Ross Dawson has put forward an attempt to make sense of today’s technology developments with the web 2.0 framework. It consists of seven key elements: Participation, Standards, Decentralization, Openness, Modularity, User Control, and Identity. While I think the elements have merit (and longevity), many of the companies reflecting these principles will fade or disappear.