I believe the social learning theory is another effective way of educating students. Michael Orey reports social learning as a way for students to learn through interactions with others. The theory suggests that students will be impacted by the social interactions that occur while working with their peers. One way the theory is put to the test is when students must teach their peers. An example discussed was when medical students could articulate a solution to a problem, but not actually apply their learning to solve the problem. Michael Orey described this as situated cognition. The social learning theory is one way to help dissolve this issue as peers are responsible for teaching one another while the teacher acts as a facilitator.
The Internet makes the social learning theory more suitable in classrooms today. There are many resources on the Internet that allow students to work collaboratively on projects via the Internet. Technology can facilitate group interactions while providing structure for group tasks, and allows members of groups to communicate even if they are not face to face. Technology allows schools to service students at anytime and facilitate their growth into lifelong learners.
There were several resources listed this week. One that I am familiar with and have used in the past is WebQuests. WebQuests are activities that allow students in a class or from different locations to work on a project or tackle a particular problem. They focus on using information rather than finding it. I designed a WebQuest for sixth grade students that took them on an African safari. The students had to gather the supplies they needed and then change routes as they encountered issues with the animals. This is definitely a task to be taken on in groups. The students worked together to complete the webQuest.
Social sites were listed as a resource as well. I have began to use edmodo in my class for my students. Only my students and their parents are allowed to log into our account. We began to use it as a place for discussion about books. We have taken surveys on this site. Students have shared accomplishments with one another. I believe that our class is more of community since we began this site. I like the way the students drive one another on this site. There are times during classroom discussions that I must stifle the conversation for lack of time, but on this site they can carry one the conversation. At times, I have posted a comment from class that day just to continue the conversation.
Social learning theory is like the other theories. It has a place in my classroom with behaviorism and constructivism. They are all embedded into my classroom. I believe to reach all students you need a variety of teaching styles.
Voice Thread
https://voicethread.com/?#u2624020
References
Pitler H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Social Learning Theories. [DVD]. Bridging Learning Theory Instruction and Technology. Baltimore, MD: Author
I have watched the students in one of the classes in my school just flourish this year. the teacher has a 4 / 5 combo with one third of her class academic special education students. she has her class doing mainly project based learning. she said that this is her best year. she loves seeing her students flourish.
ReplyDeleteI also believe that the social learning theory is an effective teaching strategy. However, I also feel that it needs to be paired with another learning theory to be completely effective. After reading your post, I think having students teach their peers is great way to incorporate social learning in the classroom. If students use technology to research and create their lesson, then that only enhances the learning experience. By using technology to prepare their lesson, not only are they learning the information but they can apply it to a learning situation as well.
ReplyDeleteHi Teresa,
ReplyDeleteI have read some books that you have summarized in one sentence in this post, “I believe to reach all students you need a variety of teaching styles”. I feel the only thing new about social learning theory is the vocabulary word Connectivism. If you think about it, social learning started with the caveman.
Joe
Teresa-
ReplyDeleteIt might just be me, but I cannot get your link to work for your voice thread. Just wanted you to know. Maybe others have gotten it to work.
Renee Scott