The instructional strategy, cooperative learning, focuses on having students interact with each other in groups in ways that enhance their learning (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, Malenoski 2007). This is something teachers have been doing for centuries, students working in groups, so what has changed? Technology is one of the things that has changed over the centuries and today’s students to be able to feel comfortable in learning have to use technology. The principles of social learning theories, according to Dr. Orey are: Students actively engage in constructing artifacts and conversing with others, students cannot do it alone they need the more knowledgeable other: could be teacher, peer, or parent, and Context and culture are critical in constructing knowledge and understanding of the world around us (Laureate Education, Inc.).
How do the cooperative learning and the principle social learning theories correlate? The correlation between the two is technology. Students can works in groups over a Google doc and not even be in the same room. This allows students to work in their comfort zone of the techno world and use the benefits of the cooperative learning strategy of students working together.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007), Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCDLaureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Program eight: Social learning theories [Video webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology.
