I believe social constructionism most appropriately fits the direction of teaching towards the present and future. We live in a world that is based on global communication working towards solving problems that are too complex for a single individual to handle on their own. It is vital that our student learn to work collectively and be able to communicate effectively with one another. In the book, Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, chapter seven is about cooperative learning. The authors give many examples that support social learning theories as well as constructionism. The authors describe cooperative learning as making sense and constructing meaning of new content through the interaction of others, just like social learning theories believe learning takes place by collaborating with peers and society (2007).
The book gives many prime examples of cooperative learning that supports the social learning theories. Students can create multimedia projects in groups, such as PowerPoints, they can create websites that display the information they discovered through a particular project. Having the students create their own website not only supports social learning theories, but the constructionism theory as well. Students can also work on projects such as wikis or use document sharing websites that allow them to work on a project in one area at anytime. Whether the students are at school, home are anywhere with internet access they can contribute to their group's assignment. There are many cooperative group activities that support social learning theory, but the most beneficial also allow the student to create final project that can be shared with others. Incorporating technology with collaborative projects is one of the best ways to prepare our students for college and the working world.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
i agree we are teaching int he 21st century and these tools are the greatest connection for the students. The students become more engaged in the classroom with the use of technology when applied appropriately to the learning task.
ReplyDeleteWith so many things going on in a student's life, having technology also means having flexibility. I agree that students can work on projects at home, school, with a friend in their down time, etc. Gives students a chance to work on it when they want to, sort of like taking online classes :)
ReplyDeleteI remember reading in one of our other classes, that our countries success in the world depends on the interaction and collaboration derived from social constructionism especially in the areas of math and science. Students need to be taught how to think for themselves and then how to think within a group.
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