Reflections on Social Learning Theory

Reflections on Social Learning Theory

(Vygotsky)

According to Vygotsky, the role of schooled learning is to assist the child (learner) to construct new knowledge by exposing him/ her to structured learning experiences that link what is already known to what is being taught. School then can be viewed as a social environment where people interact with each other and various cultural artifacts such as sings and languages and so on and so forth. Currently learning is being conceptualized as a process of knowledge construction, dependent on students’ prior knowledge, and attuned to the context in which it is being situated (Resnick 1989). At present the work of Vygotsky is having a profound impact on the thinking in education

According to Vygotsky, the role of schooled learning is to assist the child (learner) to construct new knowledge by exposing him/ her to structured learning experiences that link what is already known to what is being taught. This is accomplished through a collaborative relationship between the child and a more knowledgeable individual who would determine what knowledge to pass on, how to pass on this knowledge, and at what stage this knowledge is to be passed on. Additionally, the more knowledgeable individual (teacher or peer) would explain, inform, inquire, correct, and the child will be expected to demonstrate what would have been learned in a variety of ways. The emphasis is on the learner as he interacts with the teacher, peer and the resources at his disposal in constructing knowledge.

This student centered approach to learning is applicable to the integration of ICT into the classroom. If this concept is applied, then teachers would be forced to rethink their practices in the classroom. They would have to make determinations on what knowledge to pass on, and how and when this knowledge is to be passed on, using ICT as a tool. Measures would have to be taken to create an atmosphere of collaboration where the opportunity for scaffolding is available. Apart from offering scaffolding, teachers must ensure that students are provided with authentic experiences so that they can establish connections between what is happening in the real world and the classroom.  

The very nature of this type of approach to learning would require paradigm shifts in pedagogical practices, and assessment. Teachers would have to be versed in a number of teaching practices that support this type of learning while at the same time being skilled enough to integrating ICT in the classroom. This is challenging to say the least but as teachers, we have to be cognizant of the fact that times have changed or is changing and so too are our roles. In the 21^st century much will be expected, and much would be demanded of teachers.