As an adult, I learned to develop SharePoint through an informal, constructivist model of learning with a peer.  This experience can be developed into a complex learning where groups can focus on resolving a real problem through a SharePoint project.

Scenario: Students would be assigned to a small design team. The team will need to develop a SharePoint site for an imaginary business client. Their assignment is to write and define requirements with their clients and develop a solution to meet those requirements using SharePoint. The students would be expected to:

·        Assign interview their client ( the facilitator/teacher)

·        Articulate client needs  his/her needs or problem,

·        Develop solutions in  using group knowledge facilitator’s knowledge and other resources

·        Brief the client on the status, incorporate feedback.

·        Assess  and implement next steps

·        Present the final site to the client and other design teams

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 Project based learning would be most appropriate for this activity because it involves authentic assessment that is student centered and resolves a real problem. This project based learning involves higher order analysis to include:

·        team work/collaboration

·        project management

·        communication and reporting

·        critical thinking

·        learning new technology

·        synthesizing information

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Project Based Learning (PBL) fits well with constructivist learning theory because it supports the assumption of prior knowledge will contribute   to the learning experience.  It also supports the social interaction to explore problems and develop solutions.  In this PBL example, the facilitator as well as other group members can provide the appropriate scaffolding in the zones of proximal development to support the transfer of knowledge.

If this course were developed for adults using andragogy, problem solving would be a key motivation for the mature learner, as well as the desire to acquire the skills to help them advance their personal or professional goals.  A cognitivist could assert that PBL supports engaged participation, however the cognitivist approach is less student centered and would emphasize testing and behavior change over the assessment of the final product and the participation of the students in the learning process.

 

References

Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (2017)  Authentic Assesment Retrieved December 2, 2017 https://citl.indiana.edu/teaching-resources/assessing-student-learning/authentic-assessment/

 

Genareao, Vincen and Lyons Renee (2015)  Problem-based Learning:  Six Steps to Design, Implement and Assess  Retrieved December 2, 2017 https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/instructional-design/problem-based-learning-six-steps-to-design-implement-and-assess/

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