by
Nancy
Francisco Stewart
Doctoral
candidate/Assistant Instructor
School
of Social Work, The U. of Texas at Austin
1925
San Jacinto Blvd.
Austin
Texas 78212 USA
Joe
Sanchez
Training
Specialist
Center
for Instructional Technology/U. of Texas Austin
Computation
Center G-2700
Austin
TX 78756 USA
Collaborative learning model, online learning
An
online collaborative learning model, developed from an analysis of student
perceptions of an introductory social work class piloting Blackboard 5 in Fall,
2000, suggests establishing trust, empowerment and modeling social work values
of cooperative relationships promotes receptivity to learning from others with
improved outcomes of participation and knowledge. The model also suggests access
and technological barriers do not affect outcomes for marginalized students if
there is an atmosphere of worth.
One
undergraduate course in the School of Social Work participated in the pilot of
Blackboard 5 across the University in the Fall of 2000. A course goal is to
offer experiential learning as well as develop informed citizens about social
work and social welfare policy. Large classes present a challenge in developing
collaborative learning and teaching techniques.
There is limited research linking the application of online learning
theories, specific technology and social work. This paper presents a theoretical
model of on-line collaborative learning developed from an analysis of student
perceptions of their use of Blackboard 5 in this large introductory class. Using
a grounded theory qualitative analysis of the textual data, nine factors were
identified as components of their experiences.
The pilot study suggests that web technology enhances collaborative
learning and includes diversity rather than excluding participation. Online
collaborative learning develops skills and relationships across the university
for both faculty and students.
Participants will be able to apply a theoretical framework to the development of collaborative learning skills from this initial exploratory research.