Conversation Theory
Conversation theory is developed from Cybernetician, Gordon Pask.
Cybernetics can be defined as the theoretical study of control processes in electronics, mechanical, and biological systems. It comes from the Greek word meaning steersman. Some define it as the
science of communication and control in the animal and the machine or the communication
within an observer and between the observer and his environment. Conversation theory as
developed by Pask originated from this cybernetics framework and attempts to explain learning in both living organisms and machines. The fundamental idea of the theory was that learning occurs
through conversations about a subject matter which serves to make knowledge explicit.
In order to facilitate learning, Pask argued that subject matter should be represented in the
form of structures which show what is to be learned. These structures exist in a variety of
different levels depending upon the extent of the relationships displayed. The critical method of
learning according to Conversation Theory is "touchback" in which one person teaches another
what they have learned.
Gordon Pask-overview from web.cortland.edu.
Pask separated learners into two categories-- Serialists who learn sequentially, and Holists who search for higher order relationships.
An example of a conversational model:
The derivation of a concept from at least two concurrently existing topics or concepts comes first. Ultimately, any two concepts can produce the third, shown as the cyclic form of three concepts. Both T1 and T2 are required to produce T#.
Reference: Wikipedia
In the Classroom
After scaffolding occurs by the teacher in the classroom, students should acquire such skill that they are experts in the topic. To prove their expertise, they should be able to teach another student the concept, thus showing mastery.
Family Tree
Conversation theory is derived from Cybernetics, Reform, and Radical Construction theories. It relates to Construction theory which emphasizes two types of constructionism--cognitive and social. Conversation theory partially grows out of the theory that, "...meanings and understandings grow out of social encounters."
Links:
References
References
Harasim,
L. (2012). Learning theory and online technologies. New York: Routledge.
No comments:
Post a Comment