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
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Danny,
ReplyDeleteI really liked the "jigsaw strategy" too. I've never used it, but I plan to use when I am in a more traditional classroom. Unfortunately my school's curriculum does not allow for cooperative learning. It is strictly independent work because they are allowed to work at their own pace. Cooperative learning is almost impossible because they are rarely working on the same thing. I wish we could use cooperative learning because, as you said, students are held accountable for their own learning. Happy teaching!
The "jigsaw strategy" is so simple, yet completely effective and important for children of this generation. Each student is responsible for their own part of the projct, but more importantly teaching the rest of the group the information they gathered. This allows the student to become the teacher, which will ensure they understand the information.
ReplyDeletesocial networking is definately a life skill. Students need these skills to be team oriented and to help each other finish tasks. More importantly, with technology tools in collaboration students will be asked to face many challenges in networking with each other. Above all, like you stated the younger and sooner we teach our students how to social network the better they have a chance on reaching their learning goals and needs.
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