CSILE blog blog

• "CSILE (Computer Supported Intentional Learning Environments) functions as a "collaborative learning environment" and database, with both text and graphics capabilities. This networked multimedia environment lets students generate "nodes," containing an idea or piece of information relevant to the topic under study."

The CSILE enviroment supports...

1. Multiple perspectives
2. Student-directed goals
3. Teachers as coaches
4. Metacognition
5. Learner conterol
6. Authentic activities and contex
7. Knowledge construction
8. Knowledge collaboration
9. Previous knowledge constructions
10. Problem solving
11. Consideration of errors
12. Exploration
13. Apprenticeship learning
14. Conceptual interrelatedness
15. Alternative viewpoints
16. Scaffolding
17. Primary sources of data

Teachers can create the scaffolds for the student database collaboratively for each of the content areas. The scaffolds include content specific information needed for authentic learning. Students use "Knowledge Forums" to discuss current lessons and assignments, share work, collaborate with others in order to complete assignments, and reflect on previously learned information.

Students can use the note, build-on, movie, and attachment features to share all of these things. Meanwhile, teachers can encourage substantive collaboration, and stress understanding of information.

Scardamalia, M. & Bereiter, C. (1994). Computer support for knowledge-building communities.
Journal of the Learning Sciences, 3, 265-283.
Scardamalia, M. & Bereiter, C. (1996). Student communities for the advancement of knowledge. Communication for the ACM,