CSILE presented by Kristine Gori

What is CSILE?

CSILE (computer supported intentional learning environment) is a computer supported knowledge base. It is designed to create an environment where collaboration is “the primary medium for knowledge advancement” (Scardamalia, 1996, p 1). Students work off of each other’s notes, adding to and commenting on to create a better understanding of the task. The software is designed to foster students metacognitive abilities rather than presuppose them. “CSILE software was designed to scaffold knowledge-building activities, using a communal database constructed by learners and their teachers. Students would enter text and/or graphic notes into the database on any topic created by the teacher” (Harasim, 2012, p 75).

**CSILE now functions as Knowledge Forum (KF).

CSILE compared to Constructivist Learning Theory

CSILE falls under the constructivist learning theory. CSILE requires students to learn by contributing notes, constantly revising them, all the while working together to create a final copy to be published. The basis of the constructivist learning theory is that the learner gains knowledge from their experiences and reflecting on those experiences.  Basically, the learner learns by doing. Both models require the learner to actively participate in the lesson in order to gain knowledge of the concept.  

CSILE in the Classroom

• Group/Partner projects
• The teacher gives a topic and guides the learning with written prompts within the CSILE system
• Students begin to add to the database by adding notes
• Other group members revise and add to existing notes
• Once finalized, they fill out a form to request the information to be published (finalized)
• This form asks a variety of questions to ensure all requirements have been met and information is correct.
• Students are working together to research and build their knowledge base

This video covers the principles of knowledge building as identified by the creators of CSILE.

https://www2.ed.gov/pubs/EdReformStudies/EdTech/csile.html

https://www2.ed.gov/pubs/EdReformStudies/EdTech/hawthorne.html

CSILE Websites

Implementing CSILE

This is a great site to understand how CSILE was first used at Hawthorne Elementary School in Oakland, CA. The site explains the difficulties they had implementing the program as well as integrating it into their existing curriculum.

Overview of CSILE

This is a site that gives an overview of CSILE and the learning outcomes.

CSILE Slideshare

This slideshare is a basic overview of CSILE given by Coordinator & Design Teacher at Academy of Art and Technology at Grover Cleveland High School. It gives the basic definition, purpose, and goals of CSILE. It also explains how it has shifted into Knowledge Forum.

References

Harasim, L. M. (2012). Learning theory and online technologies. New York, NY: Routledge.

Scardamalia, M., & Bereiter, C. (1996, April). Student communities for the advancement of knowledge. Communications of the ACM, 39(4), 36+. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.nu.edu/login?url=http://go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA18299904&v=2.1&u=nu_main&it=r&p=AONE&sw=w&asid=c92613a49f58802b0785a1bf480fe6c4