In this week's resources, an emphasis was placed on cooperative learning. My assignment was to decide how the learning resources related to this topic. After participating in the Voice Thread assignment, I viewed that resource as providing a definition to explain how cooperative learning occurs. For instance, Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski (2007) support the strategies purpose by defining cooperative learning as a learning strategy that increases learning by engaging students in interacting with each other to enhance learning.
I believe that the social learning theory shows its validity in an assignment such as Voice Thread; however, it becomes apparent that students may discuss a dilemma and share possible ideas, opinions, and more, without ever coming to a solution. If a more experienced "expert" could step in and offer sound, practical advice, it would benefit all of the students participating.
As discussed in this week's discussion post, there are benefits to social learning. There still is no substitute for an experienced, educated individual to guide the learning. If we, as students of higher learning, struggle for answers, how much more our students in the classroom who have only had limited educational and background experience.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
You are certainly right about the benefits of social learning, but I really like your thoughts about how an "experienced expert" is needed to step in and guide students in the direction towards finding answers and solutions. Without that, students will never go beyond their own meaning of subjects.
ReplyDeleteI agree that there are many benefits to social learning. I have seen some of those benefits first hand in my classroom. However, as you stated, social learning needs to be directed and monitored by the teacher in order for it to be truly successful.
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