Throughout my studies at Walden University we have discussed behaviorism, cognitivism and constructivism. This week we have been reading and discussing social learning theories, which seems to encompass all of the other three learning theories. Social learning theories focus on “interactions as students engage in constructing artifacts and conversing with others” (Laureate Education, 2009). This focus relates to constructivist theories in that students are creating and building. It also ties in the idea that “learning is the act of forming networks” (Laureate Education, 2009), which comes from the cognitive view of learning. In order for students to build networks, they need structured activities that will help guide them down the path of understanding. “Instructional models based on the social constructivist perspective stress the need for collaboration among learners and with practitioners in the society” (Orey, 2001).
“The instructional strategy of cooperative learning focuses on having students interact with each other in groups in ways that enhance their learning” (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malenoski, 2007, p. 139). “The main purpose of cooperative learning is to actively involve students in the learning process; a level of student empowerment which is not possible in a lecture format” (Orey, 2001). In order to effectively implement cooperative learning, educators must first: “specify objectives; determine group size; assign students to groups; arrange the classroom; plan for instructional materials; assign group roles and task; explain criteria for success; specify appropriate behaviors; monitor behavior; intervene when necessary; assist; and offer praise” (Orey, 2001). After cooperative learning has taken place, it is critical that educators summarize and allow time for reflection so that networks can connect.
Although there are many forms of cooperative learning, all can be used more effectively through the use of technological tools such as; Google Docs, Blogs, and Wikis. For example, in a structured problem solving situation, students could be assigned a smaller task that must be combined with others to create a larger ‘whole’. As group members work to research smaller tasks, they could use Google Docs or a shared Wiki to post important information that will help the larger ‘whole’. While using a shared document for resources, students in the group could also collaborate in an online setting from home using a blog. As the group cooperates to complete the problem or artifact, they engage with one other. This type of interaction is the foundation of social learning theory and should be used in educational settings when appropriate.
References:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.
Orey, M. (Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from htt://projects.coe.uga.edu/epitt/index.php?title=Main_Page on Dec.1, 2009.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
I agree that working together using technology is a great way for students to learn information. Using Google Docs seems interesting to me. I've been brainstorming ways to use it with seventh graders. They could collaborate on a group research report from home. I do have a couple of students that do not have computers at home but I think that google docs could be a great way to teach steps in the writing process such as peer editing and revising.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that working together and using technology is a great way to learn. I liked the ideas about working from home on a wikispace. Erin I believe it was you that we all made the wiki about educational sources- in a previous class. Although it was challenging, we managed to get it done and all have our own roles despite the fact that we had never met each other!! Great ideas!!
ReplyDeleteReflection is such an important part of learning - and seems to be the least focused on in schools. This type of learning really allows for reflection before, during and after the project.
ReplyDeleteErin,
ReplyDeleteI like how you focused on the idea that the social learning theory really incorporates other learning theories into its practice. I have not thought about it but it makes a great deal of sense!
It is important to realize that the teacher has to complete a great deal of pre-implementation in order for this learning theory to be successful in the classroom. Students also need that time for reflection and discussion in order to build on prior knowledge and learn more through social interactions with their peers.
I enjoyed reading your ideas about using social networks to complete projects. This really takes learning outside the classroom and allows students to interact with each other at any time on any given day without being at school. I would imagine that it would empower students and encourage them to do well because they are doing something more enjoyable than sitting and listening to a lecture. Good idea!