The social learning theory

The social learning theory is defined as, “students actively engaged in constructing artifacts and conversing with others (Laureate Education Inc., 2010).  A major part of the social learning theory focuses around cooperative learning.  Cooperative learning is focused on having students interact with each other in groups in ways that enhance learning” (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K., 2007).  The social learning theory and the instructional strategy of cooperative learning correlate because both focus on students working together to enhance the learning environment.  Both ideas focus on students learning from one another. I am a big believer in cooperative learning as I feel it prepares the students for real life situations.  I am a middle school teacher and I think it’s very important that I prepare more students for life after school.  Many times students have difficulty working together in small groups.  I am not in favor of groups large than 4 students because I feel many times one or two of the students in the group will do all the work. Our textbook states that groups must be kept manageable and combine cooperative learning with other classroom structures (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K., 2007).   

I think the social learning theory which focuses on students working together and constructing an artifact with their knowledge is a way that allows the information to stick with the student. Cooperative learning focuses on students working in groups to solve a problem.  The teacher in the room is there to help guide them through the process but must allow students to search for answers and not just give them answers. Dr. Orey states, “Social learning theory contexts and culture are critical in constructing knowledge and understanding of the world around us” (Laureate Education Inc, 2010).  Technology has allowed this strategy to evolve where computers along with teachers can act as the experts in the classroom. Technology plays a key role in both strategies.  “Technology can play a unique and vital role in cooperative learning by facilitating group collaboration, providing structure for group tasks and allowing members of groups to communicate even if they are not working face to face” (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K., 2007).  Not only is the Internet a tool that is helpful for this theory but tools such as PowerPoint can help students construct artifacts.  Technology and the social learning theory are allowing teachers to expand their classroom walls and have students working together in ways that until a few years ago was not possible. 

These strategies go hand in hand because of the central focus on students working together to solve problems and to enhance their learning.  The teacher’s job is properly preparing students to use technology, forming groups and to help keep the groups on task.  The social learning theory cannot work without cooperative learning because the students need to learn from each other.

References:

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2010). Social learning theories. Baltimore, Maryland.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom                        instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.