One of the readings I explored this week was a chapter entitled “Cooperative Learning” from the book Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). This chapter integrated well with other resources I have studied this week relating to social learning theories. Social constructivism, as defined by Dr. Orey (Laureate, 2011), is the theory which speculates that students learn best when they are actively engaged in conversation and making connections with others around the knowledge being learned or better yet, being put into practice through projects or meaningful activities.
This chapter recommends the use of several technological tools to facilitate cooperative learning. Among them are: multimedia projects (iMovie), web collaborations (JASON project), keypals (e-mail pen pals), WebQuests , website creation, collaborative organizational tools (calendars, etc), online learning communities (Moodle, Blackboard), multiplayer simulation games, and communication software (Skype). All of these tools look intriguing to me as they seem like valuable tools to get students engaged in collaborative learning. I plan to do further exploration of them over the summer holiday for possible use in my classroom next year.
A site that I have heard positive reviews about from friends and colleagues, which was also referenced in this chapter, is moodle.org. Our school is planning to switch from SchoolFusion to another website program this summer and if the new site doesn’t meet the collaborative needs of my classroom, I may switch to this software. Does anyone have experience with it? Another program I have heard much about that incorporates the social aspect of learning via the virtual world is Quest Atlantis (questatlantis.com). It is an online 3D multiuser learning game that incorporates inquiry tasks and social action. It requires educators to complete training, so I haven’t had a chance to explore it. Has anyone heard of or participated in this program? If so, what are your thoughts?
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011b). Social learning theories [DVD]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.