With the use of educational technology, I can use projects and student-oriented lessons in my classes that incorporate technology and the social learning theory given that they go together with ease. Lessons such as web site creation, multimedia (videos), blogs, wikis, shared bookmarking, web-enables and multiplayer simulation games (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007) use collaboration with classroom instruction that work successfully. Dr. Orey reminds us that "work not only being student centered, but peer centered" (Laureate Education, 2008) fits into the social constructivism outlook.
Learning itself has an undeniable cooperative and social component that as we progress into the 21st century is becoming a necessity for student success. “Technology provides a unique and vital role in cooperative learning by facilitating group collaboration, providing structure for group tasks, and allowing members to communicate over distances.” (Pitler et al., 2007).
In today’s classrooms it is essential for our students to utilize cooperative situations and collaboration for multiple benefits. By following the appropriate structuring for cooperative learning, students are able to develop and practice skills that will be needed to function and be responsible in society and the workplace. These skills include: leadership, decision-making, trust building, communication and conflict-management" (Orey, 2001).
The everyday up-to-the-minute world of connections in society require computers, cell phones, text messages, I-pods, internet access and additional uses of other technology we need to prepare our students for. “We are living in a time when learning and innovation are increasingly global” (Pitler et al., 2007) and technology changes in education are occurring at a rapid pace where students must interact with technology tools to be successful.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2008). Program eight Social Learning Theories [Motion picture]. Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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3 comments:
Deborah
I like your focus with social learning--that it prepares our students for future skills they will need and that it is essential we start to increase they comfort level in our classrooms today. I find that when I expose my students to social learning activities it makes them more articulate individuals. Being able to communicate and work through issues with others either face-to-face or via technology will be viewed as a very positive trait by prospective employers.
Deborah,
Another aspect I look at when students are working collaboratively is, it allows them to share their ideas with others and also gain ideas they never thought of. I love the idea of social learning as it is a win-win situation for all.
Social learning activities are becoming more important in the twenty-first century, as you stated. I appreciate your quote from Dr. Orey who reminded us that work should not only be student centered, but also peer centered.
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