Due to the rapid evolution of technology we have moved on from 4IR (well it is still happening – only in our minds), which places emphasis on technology. We are now in 5IR which unlike its predecessor places emphasis on creating an equilibrium between both technology and people.
With that being said, one needs to ask: How do we cope in a world where everything is connected to everything else? In comes De Leuze and Gualltari’s Rhizome Theory, which provides us with some clues/guidelines. Prof Cronjé took delegates through the six elements of the Rhizome Theory, which facilitate learning in a connected world.
Connection: Encourage ceaseless connection and diversity in people, ideas, and resources.
Heterogeneity: Diversity between parts/components (No two things are the same)
Multiplicity: Multiplicity of solutions, finding the one relevant thing
Rupture: Deconstruction and regeneration of pieces/parts/components
Cartography: Mapping connections between parts
Decalcomania: Putting things together until a pattern appears
We were reminded that the Information specialists/librarians’ job is to keep students away from books…by giving them the one book they need and keep them away from the million books they don’t need
The session ended with a game of Kahoot
View photos of the event of our Facebook page
