Social learning theories significantly correlate with cooperative learning. Essentially, students work cooperatively to learn a new skill or concept. Social learning theories support the idea that students can be resources for one another. When working together, students can educate other students by playing the role as the team expert. This also supports the idea that students learn by doing and teaching others.
When considering technology integration that supports social learning theories, there are a variety of options that foster communication with students. For example, multi-media created by students demands several roles and responsibilities. Second graders would certainly need the support and guidance of an adult to incorporate a multi-media project, such as a movie. Ironically, I make a movie for my Back to School Night presentation every year. Truly, it is a whole class collaborative task. Each child has a special part in the movie. However, I would like to try making a movie next year that displays the students in a collaborative situation and clearly demonstrates a product, which they have generated themselves, rather than independently. I can only imagine the socialization and discussion that will take place between groups when they are told to plan a presentation for Back to School Night.
Another example of technology that correlates with social learning theories is Keypals. I am always looking for kid friendly websites for my students. When I browsed www.epals.com, I discovered a resource that I wish I knew about earlier this year. We teach a lengthy unit on culture and diversity. This site provided an incredible tool for students to communicate across the world. I love that students were posting messages to one another about their favorite holidays. Meanwhile, kids were teaching kids about holidays around the world. All the while, this tool was fostering discussions and collaboration. How neat!
A final example of technology integration is the use of WebQuests. This year and past years, I have been able to observe collaborative learning through the use of WebQuests. Since my students are younger, I have always grouped them together in order to complete the tasks specified on the WebQuest. I know there are a lot of WebQuests out there, but you really need to find ones that are interesting and pose an exciting problem or task. WebQuests hold students accountable and allow for student independence. Therefore, students can feed off one another to ensure their work gets completed correctly.
There are several tools and strategies available that support social learning theories. Integrating technology enhances the experience for learners. Essentially, students should be able to apply their learning and there are several tools using technology that will aid in this learning outcome.
For an additional communication tool, please visit my Voice Thread I created: http://voicethread.com/share/2085780/
Resource:
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD
How often do you use Webquests? It is something that I have not tried yet. I need to explore that more. It sounds like you have a good handle on using technology in your classroom.
ReplyDeleteWhich webquests have been the most successful for you? What kinds of assignments or assessments do you use along with the webquest?
ReplyDeleteMeghan,
ReplyDeleteI too find Webquests a useful tool for instruction. And I agree that your issue in finding interesting, intriguing problems to solve. Although my students are older than yours I have had success in letting them (within reason) choose the broad topic for study. This seems to lessen their innate reflex in blaming me for everything I choose
Meghan,
ReplyDeleteYour comment on keypals sounds interesting. Plan to try it out with my students. I teach Biology. As I am posting, I could think of using keypals for my students to exchange ideas on experiments, share analysis with other students around the globe. Any suggestion on how else I could use this technology tool for in my subject area?
Dawn and Tina, I have used WebQuests to teach about dinosaurs and rocks. I have created a record sheet for the students to follow while they navigate the WebQuest. With the dinosaurs, my students created a diorama at the conclusion of the WebQuest. My students are younger, so they aren't as independent as older students would be. However, I feel they gain a lot from the experiences.
ReplyDeleteYen, Biology was my weakness in high school, but I'm sure keypals could be used to enhance your instruction. I did see quite a few projects relating to biomes. I bet that would be neat to pursue with your students!
Meghan,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you are already following the theory of connectivism in your classroom with the use of WebQuest!
As you posted, your students are as independent as older would be, but do you think this is helping them along the right path in terms of 21st century skills? Gaining knowledge through exploration other social learning theories seems to going on in your class at a young age which should only benefit them!
Ken Hartling