Social Learning Theories

Social learning theories connect constructivist theory with interactive learning activities. According to social learning theory, learning occurs as students create products while collaborating with others.  Collaborative activities such as Webquests enhance the learning of the students participating. Additionally, products such as multimedia presentations or websites created collaboratively might possibly used as a teaching tool to enhance other students’ learning. As students learn and create together, the product can be a learning tool for others. The internet is a powerful tool supporting social learning theories as students and others beyond the classroom can serve as resources as well as learning partners. As students share ideas collaboratively, their ideas are furthered and enhanced, resulting in greater understanding and complexity of thought than if considered individually. Similarly, collaborative efforts with students contributing their individual strengths in a group setting can result in greater quality products or artifacts than an independent project. Students construct meaning as they learn and create while working together.