SPONSOR WORKSHOP: Blackboard presents... Scaffolding Implementation of Computer Supported Collaborative Learning for First-Generation Students (90 mins)

Abstract

First-generation students struggle to succeed in college. Research shows that this group of students face a variety of challenges that contribute to their college attrition.Yet, research also shows that this group of students could benefit from scaffolding strategies rooted in social learning and constructivist learning theories. Educational technology tools that are available for faculty to use in their face-to-face, hybrid, and online courses. These can serve as a vehicle to bolster the success of first-generation students by implementing practices that use the technology to support student learning while employing scaffolding practices. Faculty can expect to receive specific examples of how to implement scaffolding strategies for different educational technology tools that address managing group work, giving students opportunities to practice and process new concepts, incorporating reflective exercises, leveraging constructivist learning practices in dynamic virtual spaces, and accommodating diverse student needs from an inclusive and accessible perspective. With a focus on practices rooted in equity this workshop will highlight practices that encourage first-generation students to succeed academically. Faculty will find ideas and suggestions for giving students opportunities to construct knowledge together, practice new concepts, process new information and demonstrate mastery. The goal of this workshop will be for participants to consider ways to scaffold student's learning -using educational technology- to encourage students to become independent, self-regulating learners, and problem solvers.