Field Blog Post 12/ West Geauga

Question I will be exploring: Ayers claims that learning is an intensly social process (44). How does the teacher tap into the social nature of learning to help his students grow?


     During my observation, I found that Mr. Connell's class is based upon the idea of learning as a social process. The students are constantly interacting and discussing material with each other. One way Mr. Connell makes learning social is through his "Rodeos" or vocabulary quizzes. Students form small groups and then are given very interactive tests. Students might be asked to form a skit, draw an illustration, or come up with a symbol that is represents the vocabulary word. Students discuss their various interpretations and understandings of the word, helping every student to have a deeper more comprehensive understanding.

     Another way Mr. Connell makes learning social is through his use of a game called tableau. Students form small groups and are asked to act out either the meaning of a vocab word or a scene from literature. Students have a small amount of discussion time to plan and discuss their knowledge and form a skit. When Mr. Connell says "tableau" students have to freeze and form an unmoving pose/skit that represents what they are discussing.

       A final way Mr. Connell makes learning interactive is through his various discussion methods. Mr. Connell often calls open his students to “circle the wagons," or move desks into a large discussion circle. Students are also often asked to "turn to their dancing partners" (the person sitting next to them) to discuss questions, and form new ideas and opinions.

       I believe that making learning social is very important. Students are able to bounce ideas off each other, share information, and help each other. In addition to promoting a better understanding, social learning also improves social skills and teamwork. I will definitely use social learning in my classroom.