Thing #1 Connectivism

I can see this really happening in some classes in education in the upper levels for high school and college, and in the future trickling down to more appropriate applications at the earlier grades-- certainly in GT or AP classes. Kids are already connecting with each other through online games, social networking, etc. This just takes it to the educational level by pulling in online resources as we have in the past, but connecting it with other students and experts without having to be face to face. To me, this includes the best of both worlds in research-- connecting students interactively with content and real people for support and information. I love the idea of students being able to tap into lectures by experts, authors, and other college professors...

Librarians have been pulling from different materials and resources for years-- this is just a little shift in the types of resources and the way they are accessed. Reminds me of a 21st century version of cooperative learning or independent study. I think librarians would be able to make this shift easier than the departmentalized teacher that has been teaching the same content or subject each year-- especially those who have relied heavily on textbooks. But parts of this way of learning could certainly start to be incorporated into teaching and learning now.

I like the idea of some days with a teacher for access instruction , modeling, guidance, etc., (because these skills will have to be taught and nurtured at various levels-- especially at schools where students do not often have access at home to updated computers with fast internet and have limited computer, reading, and life experiences outside of school.

I also like the flexibility of having other days for self motivated and capable students to not have class, but have group and individual work time using tools that does not have to include a face to face. This seems like a real time saver to me, that I think would foster independence and self-motivation in students. I think, though, there should also be the opportunity for any students to meet every day with the teacher or librarian if needed for extra support or guidance.
The possiblilities for this type of class or study really is limitless and everchanging.