Study of the Influence of Social Relationships among Students on Knowledge Building Using a Moderately Constructivist Learning Model

Abstract

The main objective of higher education institutions is to educate students to high standards to proficiently perform their role in society. Elsewhere we presented empirical evidence illustrating that the use of a blended learning approach to the learning process that applies a moderate constructivist e-learning instructional model improves students' academic outcomes. In this article, we use social network analysis techniques to analyze how social relationships improve student knowledge building with the deployment of this teaching/learning model. The results of this study suggest that the teaching/ learning model used promotes the social relationship of discussion and generation of new ideas, and this relationship has an impact on improving students' academic outcomes. We also illustrate that advice-seeking and trust among students are the relationships that most influence the discussion and generation of new ideas. We conclude by proposing learning strategies designed to improve these social relationships.

Social Networks and Mobile Devices in Higher Education: Pilot Project

“…Moreover, students overwhelmingly reported the use of social networking apps on their mobile devices (followed by apps for entertainment, information etc.). Alonso et al [27] conducted the research and analysis on how social relationships improve students´ knowledge building. The strong potential was discovered in discussions when new ideas were developed.…”

Proximity in the Online Classroom:engagement, Relationships, and Personalization

“…These communities, while made up of students, should be supported by instructors. Learning communities provide students with an opportunity to be a part of a dynamic process that allows information exchange and communication to be key components of knowledge creation (Alonso, et al, 2015).…”

“…As Bryant and Bates (2015) explain, online learning can offer unique ways to build community and foster positive student habits like questioning and challenging each other to build new knowledge. In addition to new knowledge, relationships can foster information exchange, and lead to joint task performance, conversation, and ultimately emotional as well as cognitive connections (Alonso et al, 2015). Instructors who take the time to establish a dialogue with their students provide reassurance that increases student learning and Proximity through relationships can be found in social presence and components of socialization.…”

“…Social presence is conveyed through effective communication, open communication, and group cohesion (Garrison, 2007). Social presence, or the ability to establish instructor-student and student-student relationships, can be improved and enhanced based upon the teaching methods employed by instructors (Alonso, Manrique, Martinez, & Vines, 2015). Providing personalized feedback, encouraging engaging discussions among classmates that allow knowledge creation, and integrating technology can enhance social presence in the online classroom.…”

An Investigation on the Use by Academic Researchers of Knowledge from Scientific Social Networking Sites

“…Scientific research projects generally involve knowledge-intensive teams that necessitate participants to share knowledge while working together. Knowledge sharing among researchers is supported by higher institutions because it promotes critical thinking [2] and learning [3]. Traditionally, researchers find new opportunities to collaborate among colleagues in their institutions, through academic conferences, exchanging academic visits [4].…”