Social Learning Theories

In the last couple of weeks, we have focused on behaviorism, the cognitive theory, and constructionism and how these theories affect learning in the classroom. This week we are focusing on social learning theories, which in my opinion, are the most relevant to today's students. Students today are social butterflies that have been shaped heavily by technology. Many students have their own cell phones at young ages and are able to use computers quite well. Since students are affected heavily by technology, I think it makes most sense for teachers to use this to their advantage. Allowing students to use wiki pages is more appealing and engaging and it encourages them to collaborate and work with others– all important skills needed for the 21st century.

According to Dr. Orey, social learning theories is similar to constructionism but takes it one step further (Laureate Inc., 2010). In constructionism, students are required to build or create some kind of artifact, such as a rocket of water bottles or a PowerPoint presentation. Social learning theories are similar to this but students are highly encouraged to interact and discuss the process and their final product with others. The learning takes place in the interaction with others. It was also mentioned that the best way for people to learn is through teaching others (2010). I recently subbed in a fourth grade class so this particular example is fresh in my mind. When I was in high school, I could not remember the difference between scalene and isosceles triangles! As a substitute, I have [finally] learned which one is which because I had to teach it several times. Whew, now that that's off my chest...

Another reason why I like the idea of students teaching other students is because sometimes they are able to reiterate the material in a way that is more understandable and at their peer's level than the teacher can. Although we teachers are quite knowledgeable people, sometimes it is the simple responses from students that make the most sense.

In this week's reading, we learned about cooperative learning and how to use technology with this strategy. Cooperative learning can be correlated with the social learning theory because it requires students to work with others and have discussions. In a previous course at Walden, it was mentioned that teachers need to create more opportunities for students to talk in the classroom. Learning should be interactive and students will get bored if they are always being lectured and are not active participants.

There are all kinds of ways to use technology in cooperative learning. For example, students can use wiki pages or Google Docs in groups. The reading also had many websites, such as ePALS and Keypals Club International, where students are able to communicate with other schools from different cities, states, and even countries.

In Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, it was mentioned that using technology in the classroom can help students grow as lifelong learners because it shows them that learning can take place anywhere, anytime both in and outside of school (Pitler,  Hubble,  Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Program eight. Social learning theories [Webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore, MD: Author.

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