The Internet as a Tool for the Social Construction of Knowledge

The use of computers as a tool for learning has traditionally focused on individualized methods of instruction. Social interaction, however, is taking an increasingly important role in current learning theories and instruction prescriptions including computerbased delivery systems. Concurrent with these recommendations, global computer networks have emerged bringing new forms of computermediated social interaction. This paper discusses an ongoing case study that takes advantage of Internet technology to promote learning through sociallymediated interactions. Based upon theories of situated learning and cognitive apprenticeship, students engagein so.2ial dialog with experts through Internet technologies such as email, listservs, synchronous chats, and the World Wide Web. In this case, the experts were two multimedia developers, one academic and one corporate. They fielded questions related to the use of tec.hnologies for training from the class. (Contains 13 references.) (Author/SWC) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be rmde from the original document. *********************************************************************** U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Office ol Educational Resoarch zno Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) 0 This document has been reproduced as received from the person or organization originating it. 0 Minor changes have been maL:e to improve reproduction quality t^r) Points of view or opinions stated in this document do not necessarily represent otticial OERI position or policy