Connectivism sees learning as "a process that occurs within nebulous environments of shifting core elements" (Siemens 2005, "Connectivism," ¶1). Learning is the process of building connections that enable us to acquire knowledge and learn more. This focus recognizes the fact that learning is based on "rapidly altering foundations . . . currency (accurate, up-to-date knowledge) is the intent of all connectivist learning activities" (Siemens 2005, "Connectivism," ¶2).
There is certainly knowledge negotiation in connectivism, but the theory requires some system of external validation and expertise to evaluate currency. Like constructivism, connectivism requires some objective way of judging what kind of learning is appropriate. In the connectivist model, such objectivity takes the form of a teacher or other expert who can provide "trusted nodes" (Hotrum 2007, ¶4).
Hotrum, M. 2007. Connectivism Online Conference – George Siemens. [Weblog entry, February 2.] Choice Learning. http://choicelearning.blogspot.com
/2007/02/connectivism-online-conference-george.html (accessed May 27, 2008). Archived at http://www.webcitation.org/5XfGVnPdI.
Siemens, G. 2005. Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning 2 (1). http://itdl.org/Journal/Jan_05/article01.htm (accessed May 7, 2008). Archived at http://www.webcitation.org/5Xuh37vbA.