The resources we explored this week do coorelate with the social learning theory in several ways. First, student-created multimedia is naturally an environment for cooperative learning because it requires many roles and responsibilities. Careful attention to upfront preparation must be completed before creating a video can be accomplished. Second, webquests are designed to utilize learners' time to concentrate on using information, rather than looking for it. It also supports critical thinking at these learning acquisition levels: analysis, synthesis, and evaluation (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). Additionally, Dr. Orey further explained how the word "social" in relation to learning simply means that students need another person, whether it be the teacher, a parent, a tutor, or another student to aid in their learning. They are called the "More Knowledgeable Other" factor. He extends this by adding that many of us have Inert Knowledge: it can be articulated, but not applied, and how social learning will help transfer and then apply learning. Dr. Orey continues to support this by stating that social learning must be contextual and cultural in nature. Students must try to understand each other's backgrounds and traditions before they can work together (Social Learning Theories, 2009).
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Social Learning Theories. (2009). Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. (Laureate Education, Inc., CD-ROM, 2009 release).
5 comments:
I agree with you. With technology we can make learning more complex. There is a lot more prep work to be done, but it will help students use their time doing what they are supposed to be doing. Students will be working with others in most jobs when they are adults, and we need to make sure they are prepared.
I do feel that we need others in order to learn. The concept of "More Knowledgeable Other" is a very interesting one. I does not necessarily have to be the teachers. In a cooperative group setting, the students will learn at different paces and will understand things differently. When they explain it to each other it not only helps the group member, but it also helps cement their own knowledge and understanding.
Angie,
Do you see a way that a Voice Thread can aid you in your classroom? Maybe if they were creating a Voice Thread to use as a group to introduce each other something they may not know much about, say a country that they had recently visited.
Using a voice thread can aid in the group getting to know each other and get them on track in more cooperative learning within the classroom.
I think the great thing about the role of technology is that it can help give everyone in a group setup a comfort level. If they really don't understand the material too well they can possibly learn that from the group, but most kids are good at technology, so they will not be afraid to jump in and participate in the tech end of it. They might even teach some else in the group what they know in regards to tech. Also, the real world preparation is immeasurable when teachers can incorporate web sites, voice threads, etc. Real world is about collaboration and products and that is how we should teach.
I agree with you completely that as students learn in a group they are able to learn more mateiral on a deeper level because they learn from each other. It makes the learning process great for the students!
Trisha
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