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.
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Rinehart,
ReplyDeleteI think your point about social learning theory involving, not just people-to-people interactions, but also people to their environment is an important one. Many people are not comfortable in social settings and do not thrive in those types of environments. Famous examples of introverts are Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein and the Johnny Carson.
Nice call with famous introverts. It is important that all students can strive in our classrooms. While getting out of our comfort zone is an important part of the learning process, so is being comfortable.The more comfortable a student, the more they will open themselves up to new ideas.
ReplyDeleteA template is a great idea to get into the project. This way you are not wasting class time with the basics and you can dive right into the creation. Students will have the opportunity to customize later.
ReplyDeleteBrett