I thought I would make a comment about self-awareness in learning and the naturallly forming communities that are mentiond by Imel and Stein (2003) in our reading this week. I completely support their premise that learning does not just take place in the classroom. We find ourselves in situations daily where learning takes place. In fact, it seems to me, that the majority of learning actually takes place outside the classroom in informal settings. I find that classroom learning provides the foundation and then community and/or group learning kicks in.
For example, in my community, a great deal of concern has arisen among citizens regarding the role and proposed expansion of the Chumash Casino. Several local groups have formed to oppose the casino's right to eminent domain and seemingly unchecked growth. When our local highway was renamed the Chumash Highway from San Marcos Pass without any community members' knowledge, our local group, POLO (Preservation of Los Olivos) united in opposition of the casino. Social capital was further enhanced through a series of forums educating members about the rights of Native Americans. Regular updates on progress are sent by email. The fight continues recently on a request by the casino for access to more of the community's water rights.
Natural forming communities with significant social capital can be very powerful. Their role in the learning process should be more recognized.
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2 comments:
An interesting post on naturally forming communities. Some subjects do seem to 'lend' themselves to groups. I believe that these can include subjects including debate or analysis of a topic (maybe a political science, or philosophy class). However, some subjects (math) do not seem to lend themselves to these groups.
With this in mind, I think that instructors should assign group projects in situations where they will naturally 'work' rather than try to force students into group projects.
Therese,
I totally agree with your post. I also had similar feelings regarding the value of face to face interaction that you mention in your previous post. Nice job!
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