Collaboritive Learning in the WC

One of things that I disagreed with Lunsford was that collaborative learning challenges the idea that knowledge is individually derived. The American culture is based on an individualistic society, opposed to Asian cultures who place more importance on a collective society. I think it is important to identify this as a root for our individual learning style. Throughout my public education I was given more individual assignment and tasks to complete then group work or more collaborative projects.

But if knowledge is socially constructed, wouldn't a student still be able to learn collaboratively? I think you may still discovery things on your own and learn from others as you share and collaborate with them. There may be less pressure and more comfort learning from your peers. As you discuss and work on things together knew points of view may arise from what you share with one another. To me a collaborative learning style would benefit all involved and include individual learning.

At Michigan State I have had very good experiences with group work that may be considered collaborative. In my WRA 202 class, I worked with two other classmates preparing a series of assigned reports- one including a usability report. We each did our own work but when we came to share our findings we learned from each other, revised, adapted our views, and collaboratively prepared an excellent report in the end. I know there were many things I would not have been aware of without the help and insight of my partners. As I was working with them, I believe I individual learned things on my own. This was the first time I had ever had to write a usability report and researched some background information myself. What I learned working collaboratively did not necessarily discourage my own individual curiosity and knowledge. From experiences as a student, I find this has been overall a successful way to learn. I am unsure on how our educational system can adapt more collaborative styles, but it could definitely be worth the effort.