A New Twist On An Old Tool: Joint Learning With An Innovative Cognitive Writing Tool

Abstract

Our paper introduces a new initiative on a common computer program used as a cognitive tool that facilitates learning with as opposed to learning through technology. The tool, which comprises a modification of a so-called boilerplate, is part of a joint learning system (Kim and Reeves, 2007) in which the tool, learner and activity are equal participators in the learning process. Our focus is on teachers with limited technical expertise. The boilerplate is used as a learning tool specifically aimed at supporting graduate and post-graduate essay writing classes. Teachers have limited time to learn new computer programs and may avoid these because of limited technology skills and inexperience in this area. The cognitive tool assists students with structuring, formatting and grammar. In our presentation, we clarify the special features of the tool, and reflect on the philosophy behind it as well as on its potential for teachers in higher education.