We all learn from each other. We pick up habits and different traits from our friends and family. Social cognitive theory explains how we notice each other and learn from different minds. Our course is built around social cognitive theory because we engage in discussions which elevate our minds. We also participate in tutorials and learn how to increase our learning skills from our peers. An academic journal by Wan, Compeau and Haggerty, discusses the use of social cognitive theory in e-learning. Their research on the subject is to determine which is more effective; self-regulated learning (SRL) or social learning strategies. They believe both SRL and social SRL have different effects on the learning process.
The article states, “Learners who are good at conducting social forms of learning can overcome some e‑learning drawbacks such as social isolation, and with the help obtained from others, they can learn more effectively than those who engage only in personally directed forms of learning” (Wan 311). I have to agree with this article because I know I learn better when I’m around others. Someone will always know something that you do not know. It may be easier to engage in SRL behaviors, but one will never fully learn something new. Multimedia forces others to interact with each other and it builds confidence in new skills.
Wan, Z., Compeau, D., & Haggerty, N. (2012).The Effects of Self-Regulated
Learning Processes on E-Learning Outcomes in Organizational
Settings. Journal Of Management Information Systems,
29(1), 307-340. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/cvsv2u9.
