Connectivism and Social Learning in Practice

Using social networking is one of the best practices a teacher can utilize in ones classroom. We all know that each and every student learns a bit differently, but one thing is for sure...We learn and obtain knowledge in much greater masses when we are able to teach the material to others. Collaboration in a Student-centered, or even better, a Peer-centered classroom allows students to work with one another for a common goal. Utilizing strategies such as the "Jig-saw Strategy", where students are each a member of a collaborative team and responsible for learning and teaching information to teammates, can enhance the learning of all students in the class. This makes students accountable for their own education and allows them to learn at a much higher level, and obtain much more information.

In a socail learning theory, students are active participants in constructive activities working in collaboration with eachother. To promote this learning theory in a classroom can be as easy as beginning class with a Warm-up that encourages socialization between students. It helps students to validate answers, bounce ideas off one another, use encouragement, and builds confidence. This takes the teaching out of the instructors hands and places the responsibility in the hands of the students. Teachers then become more of a facilitator in the classroom and allows them to constantly check for understanding.

Social networking, in my eyes, is one of the greatest strategies for learning in the classroom. It helps to build teamwork skills, socail skills, and can also helps students to build their confidence. And with constantly growing and changing technology, students are now able to collaborate with one another outside of class to build strong friendships and long-lasting relationships with one another. These are all skills and attributes we all need to be successful and productive members of society. Teaching our students these skills at an early age is one of the most beneficial gifts we can grant our students with and should be utilized in each and everyday of class we teach.

My Dilemma: http://voicethread.com/#u1335485.b1374030.i7286344