Constructivist learning theory states that we build our own distinctive understandings of the world around us. Social learning theory goes further by saying we construct meaning primarily through our interactions with others and with our environment. There are a lot of technologies, many of which I have recently learned about since my time at Walden, that assist communication, collaboration, and cooperation.
Having students set up blogs and rss feeds is a great way to start. I would use the template already set up by this class (make a post by Wednesday, respond to at least two other posts) to start training my students to work this way.
After students became comfortable with this, a wikki site run by students could become an invaluable learning tool.
There are so many tools available through the World Wide Web, which include virtual field trips, voice threads, simulation software, pod casts, and You Tube to name a few.
Once students are sold on the idea, and have had some fun and success at using the technologies, almost anything can be turned into a social learning moment.
