Social Learning Theories

In social constructivism, students gain knowledge by working with others.  Each member of the group uses their own personal strengths to interpret new information, and then the group as a whole combines each individuals understanding to develop a more detailed understanding of the topic.  In the 21st century, this is an essential theory on a practical level.  With the internet, smart phones, and video conferencing, we no longer need to be in the same country as the people we are collaborating with.  Being able to work together to gain a better understanding of our world is a required skill.

In Using Technology with Classroom Instruction That Works, one instructional strategy that is discussed is cooperative learning.  The techniques that they discuss are perfect examples of how social constructivism can be used in the classroom.  For instance, students can work together on a multimedia project.  Each member of the group will have different strengths and weaknesses.  One may be good at organizing the information.  Another may have visited the area that is being discussed.  Each student working alone would be able to create a project, but by having the students share their strengths and help each other understand the topic, they will both present a better project, and have a deeper understanding of the subject.