Social Learning

Social learning is a great way for students to discuss topics with one another and learn from each other. An activity that I do with my students is jigsaw activities. This is where certain groups or students are experts on their particular topic and then share to the rest of the class. This activity is very beneficial in a lot of ways. For one students are able to become experts on what they are talking about so that they have the best understanding possible. Instead of students trying to cramp in everything they are able to focus on one topic and then listen to others discuss their topics. This allows for the students to do more of the teaching and allow for the teacher to be the facilitator.

Another activity that our county actually uses all the time is think, pair, share. My county has all the teachers complete the I do, We do, You do model of teaching. This allows for the teacher to model the skill, the students to work on the skill together, and then allow for them to work on it on their own. This is a great way to have the students communicate their thoughts and ideas to one another before really being on their own. It is a perfect time for them to ask any questions that they might be having and allow for their peers to help them better understand the topic.

Social learning is very beneficial for students to interact with others in their class or even around the world through technology while they are learning. Students will be faced with interactions in their work area so now is the best time to have them use the skill. Allowing individuals to communicate while learning is beneficial because it allows for more questions and discussion. As the saying goes, two heads are better than one!