Using a Connectedness Cycle to Create a Paradigm Shift in Work and Education

Abstract

If the global pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that humans have an innate need for connection. Many people sought connections within work communities, neighborhood groups, faith-based groups, communities of like-minded educators, or communities of post-secondary students. Often, these communities took to the internet in order to remain connected, using digital resources and virtual platforms, including social media, that allowed for interpersonal communication and feelings of connectedness. Regardless of the type of community to which members of society strived to belong, or the methods chosen in an attempt to maintain connectedness, this need for connection was, and is, inherent to all of society. The purpose of this chapter is to present the notion of the connectedness cycle, clarify its subcomponents, and provide clear and specific examples and strategies as to how connection can create a paradigm shift in both the workplace and in education environments.