I would have to say that the cooperative learning strategy is connected directly with the constructivist and social learning theories. According to Dr. Siemens, context and culture are critical in constructing and understanding of the world around us (Laureate, 2009). I believe it's a very it a very valuable expereince when students have the opportunity to present ideas, as well as hear and reflect on the ideas of others. This can be easily accomplished through the use of social collaboration tools and cooperative learning groups. I believe that these types of activities allow students to acquire knew knowledge and practice important communication and interpersonal skills that are used outside the classroom. In today’s learning environment and in the “real world”, sharing information and expertise is very important in supporting and facilitating learning. I have just started to get my feet wet with the Voice Thread and think it’s is an amazing tool thus far. I’m looking forward to experimenting with it and looking at the possibilities that it offers for collaboration.
Greg-
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer).(2009).Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.
I too had a "a-ha!" kind of moment working with VoiceThread, I am excited to see more examples of classroom application of this technology.
ReplyDeleteI agree when you say that social learning allows for practice. The practice is training to problem solve and create products to show and teach others so everyone can learn. This is better practice than asking the same similar questions a few times a week until the students can make the connections. It offers variety for students to dig deeper so there can be less drill and practice sessions in classrooms.
ReplyDeleteI too see Voice Threads as an asset in my classroom. I think it may offer a quicker way for my students ad I to share ideas and thoughts from images and blogs.
Jay