scholarly journals In Favor of Large Classes: A Social Networks Perspective on Experiential Learning

2021 ◽  
pp. 105256292110228
Author(s):  
Alexander K. Kofinas ◽  
Crystal Han-Huei Tsay
Keyword(s):  
Experiential Learning ◽  
Network Theory ◽  
Alternative Assessment ◽  
Social Network Theory ◽  
Conceptual Basis ◽  
Pedagogical Tool ◽  
Large Classes ◽  
Powerful Means ◽  
Conceptual Paper ◽  
Meaningful Experiences

Most of the literature has viewed large classes as a problem and a challenge. Furthermore, large classes are often presented to be an obstacle to students’ experiential learning and a multitude of solutions can be found in the literature to manage large classes; solutions that include innovative technologies, alternative assessment designs, or expanding the capacity of delivery. This conceptual paper advocates that large classes, when used intentionally as a pedagogical tool, can be a powerful means for socialized and experiential learning for our students. In this work we connect the phenomenon of large classes with social network theory and concepts to re-conceptualize large classes as a social micro-cosmos consisting of a multitude of interconnected student communities. On this conceptual basis we offer three positive features of large classes: (i) higher levels of freedom for students to learn in their own terms (ii) learning from a diverse body of students and (iii) the provision of meaningful experiences of learning. We conclude with suggestions that should enable educators in large classes shift from an individualistic psychology-based model of experiential learning to a sociological model of experiential learning.

Social Drivers for ICT Diffusion among Agrarian Business Enterprises in Nigeria

2011 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
pp. 19-31
Author(s):  
Bartholomew Aleke ◽  
Udechukwu Ojiako ◽  
David Wainwright
Keyword(s):  
Developing Countries ◽  
Diffusion Of Innovation ◽  
Network Theory ◽  
Innovation Adoption ◽  
Social Network Theory ◽  
Conceptual Basis ◽  
Diffusion Of Innovation Theory ◽  
Is Research ◽  
Business Enterprises ◽  
Successful Innovation

In this paper, the authors examine the process of diffusion of innovation ICT within agrarian business enterprises operating in developing countries. There is substantial research in the area of Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DoI) and its application to Information Systems (IS) research within organisations. However, in recognition of the conceptual limitations of DoI, researchers have called for the incorporation of aspects of Social Network Theory (SNT) into DoI frameworks. The findings of this research suggest that an understanding of the conceptual basis of innovation is a major driver of successful innovation adoption.

An Advanced Software to Manage a Smart Water Network with Innovative Metrics and Tools Based on Social Network Theory

10.29007/gvnz ◽  
2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Armando Di Nardo ◽  
Michele Di Natale ◽  
Anna Di Mauro ◽  
Eva Martínez Díaz ◽  
Jose Antonio Blázquez Garcia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Network ◽  
Network Theory ◽  
Water Distribution ◽  
Distribution Networks ◽  
Social Network Theory ◽  
Geographical Information ◽  
Water Network ◽  
Time Data ◽  
Water Losses ◽  
Operational Conditions

The recent development and applications of social network theory in many fields of engineering (electricity, gas, transport, water, etc.) allows both the understanding of networks and to improve their management. Social network theory coupled to the availability of real time data and big data analysis techniques can change drastically the traditional approaches to manage civil networks. Recently, some authors are working to apply this novel approach, based on social network theory, on the water distribution networks using: a) graph partitioning algorithms to define optimal district meter areas both for water losses identification and for water network protection, b) innovative topological, energy and hydraulic indices to analyze performance; and c) GIS (Geographical Information System) to provide a more effective display of results and to improve network behavior in specific operational conditions. In this paper, a novel release 3.5 of SWANP software, that implements all these features, was tested on a real large water network in Alcalá de Henares, Spain.

Appreciating Large Classes: Using Appreciative Inquiry to Foster a Hospitable Learning Space for Experiential Learning

2021 ◽  
pp. 105256292098012
Author(s):  
Mai P. Trinh ◽  
Chantal van Esch ◽  
Hector A. Martinez ◽  
Tracey Messer
Keyword(s):  
Experiential Learning ◽  
Organizational Development ◽  
Appreciative Inquiry ◽  
Experiential Learning Theory ◽  
Learning Space ◽  
Large Classes ◽  
Development Methodology ◽  
Large Enrollment ◽  
Large Groups ◽  
Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory

Experiential learning has been documented as an effective method for student learning, yet its use in large-enrollment classes remains limited. Kolb’s experiential learning theory emphasizes that experiential learning requires a hospitable learning space (HLS) that is conducive to learning. In this article, we reframe the challenges to experiential learning in large classes as a failure to create and maintain an HLS, and we propose Appreciative inquiry as one solution to this problem. Appreciative inquiry is an organizational development methodology that practitioners have successfully used to engage large groups to leverage their strengths and resources. First, we describe the HLS as an overarching theoretical framework to address the lack of engagement when conducting experiential learning in large classes. Second, we use the principles of Appreciative inquiry to provide actionable suggestions to instructors facing these challenges. Finally, through the use of appreciative inquiry, we argue that some characteristics of large classes can instead be viewed in an appreciative way as available resources to generate an engaging experiential learning process for students.

Alliance portfolios and firm performance: the moderating role of environmental dynamics

2017 ◽  
Vol 117 (8) ◽  
pp. 1550-1566 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xiaoyan Wang ◽  
Haijun Bao
Keyword(s):  
Social Network ◽  
Network Theory ◽  
High Performance ◽  
Social Network Theory ◽  
Three Dimensions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Negative Effect ◽  
Moderating Role ◽  
Alliance Portfolios

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to focus on the operation strategy of high-performance alliance portfolios by analyzing the effect of alliance portfolios on the performance of focal firms, using post-structuralism of social network theory and contingency theory. In detail, this paper refines alliance portfolios into three dimensions, and studies the moderating role of context on the relation between alliance portfolios and firm performance. Design/methodology/approach The empirical study was carried out with second-hand data gathered from Internal Revenue Service. In total, this paper gathered data from 506 focal firms in Zhejiang Province from 2001 to 2010 as the sample to test the hypotheses. Findings Based on the empirical results, the authors find the positive effect of relational dimension (weak alliance portfolios) and partner dimension (the diversity of partners) on performance. The effect of the former will become weaker with the increasing environmental dynamic, while the effect of the latter will become stronger. However, the structural dimension (alliance portfolios size) and relational dimension (new partners) have the negative effect on performance. And the negative effect will become stronger under high environmental dynamic. Moreover, the negative effect of non-local partners on performance becomes stronger when the environmental dynamic is high. Research limitations/implications The paper reveals that with the industry transformation caused by “internet +,” companies have been required go beyond traditional dyadic alliance management perspective. That is to say, individual alliance relationship should be seen as a part of a much broader picture of alliance portfolio. As such, the framework may help companies to manage their alliance portfolios by matching high-performance alliance portfolios to the external environment to produce a synergistic effect (Lea et al., 2006; Tritos et al., 2013; Keith et al., 2014) taking the characteristics of the configuration of alliance portfolios into consideration. Originality/value The paper presents a model that explains the effect of three dimensions of alliance portfolios on the performance of focal firms in different contexts through empirical study. This paper also integrates post-structuralism of social network theory and contingency theory to enable the understanding on the configuration of alliance portfolios.

scholarly journals Analysis of Network for Asian Cup Soccer Final based on Social Network Theory: Based on Centrality Indexes

2016 ◽  
Vol 16 (5) ◽  
pp. 205-216 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sun-Duck Kim ◽  
Tae-Young Seong ◽  
Dong-Min Lee ◽  
Man-Hyung Lee
Keyword(s):  
Social Network ◽  
Network Theory ◽  
Social Network Theory

scholarly journals Experiential learning in higher education. A student-centered teaching method that improves perceived learning.

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (5) ◽  
pp. 121-135
Author(s):  
Verónica Villarroel ◽  
◽  
Mariavictoria Benavente ◽  
María Josefina Chuecas ◽  
Daniela Bruna ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Experiential Learning ◽  
Developmental Psychology ◽  
Teaching Method ◽  
Psychology Students ◽  
Student Centered ◽  
Pedagogical Tool ◽  
Healthy Development ◽  
Second Year ◽  
Psychology Course ◽  
Do So

There is an interest in involving psychology students in early practical activities, which allow them to learn in a more meaningful and authentic way. In these instances, they must apply knowledge, solve problems and demonstrate professional skills associated with the graduate competencies that they are expected to achieve. The present work seeks to position experiential learning as a means to reach these goals. With this aim, an intervention on experiential learning with second year students from a developmental psychology course is presented, describing its design, implementation and assessment. The students observed and interviewed schoolchildren to determine an area of development in which they needed stimulation and enrichment for a healthy development. Then, they created a pedagogical tool to do so, testing its application on the same children sample. The results showed a positive perception from the students, teachers and beneficiaries of the proposal. Likewise, the students reported the perception of having learned more than in a subject in which this methodology is not used; this difference was statistically significant.

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