Constructivism
Constructivism is a philosophy that is fundamentally defined as knowledge constructed by the learner and it is best aligned with cognitive psychology. Learning happens when we mix what we already know with some new information. Our interpretations are base on our knowledge, experiences and backgrounds.
A traditional face-to-face classroom setting is primarily teacher-centered where the goal is to transfer knowledge to students in a controlled, sequential manner and the learner listens passively with limited participation. Students move through the lesson at the same pace. In comparison, the constructivist teaching method changes the focus to be learner-centered. The learner is actively engaged in the learning process. Students learn from each other as they share their experiences and by hearing from different perspectives in a group. The teacher is the guide or facilitator with an open-ended learning environment.
In the traditional classroom, testing is done using pen and paper tests that often inspire little personal engagement. The constructivist assessments, engages the student through journals, research reports, and artistic expressions. Through creativity the students develops a variety of ways to express themselves. The student is also more likely to learn, retain and transfer the new knowledge to real life.
One criticism of the constructivist philosophy is that there may be cultural differences in the classroom that affects the learning of various students. What makes sense to someone may not make sense to others. Another criticism is in regards to the Science and Math coursework that needs a more balanced approach. Misconceptions in the foundations of these subjects need to be corrected early.
Benefits of the constructivist approach are that it develops thought processes, communication and social skills. It promotes validating the student's point of view, rather than judging it to be right or wrong. The student reevaluates and readjusts his knowledge and understanding. This emphasis builds confidence and self-esteem, which motivate the student to handle more complex problems in the future. Our PLN Mind Mapping exercise is an example of using the constructivist theory. It’s an interactive, creative approach to help us understand and clarify our goals to turn them into reality.
Social Constructivism graphic
Retrieved from jb00e.wordpress.com
A traditional face-to-face classroom setting is primarily teacher-centered where the goal is to transfer knowledge to students in a controlled, sequential manner and the learner listens passively with limited participation. Students move through the lesson at the same pace. In comparison, the constructivist teaching method changes the focus to be learner-centered. The learner is actively engaged in the learning process. Students learn from each other as they share their experiences and by hearing from different perspectives in a group. The teacher is the guide or facilitator with an open-ended learning environment.
In the traditional classroom, testing is done using pen and paper tests that often inspire little personal engagement. The constructivist assessments, engages the student through journals, research reports, and artistic expressions. Through creativity the students develops a variety of ways to express themselves. The student is also more likely to learn, retain and transfer the new knowledge to real life.
One criticism of the constructivist philosophy is that there may be cultural differences in the classroom that affects the learning of various students. What makes sense to someone may not make sense to others. Another criticism is in regards to the Science and Math coursework that needs a more balanced approach. Misconceptions in the foundations of these subjects need to be corrected early.
Benefits of the constructivist approach are that it develops thought processes, communication and social skills. It promotes validating the student's point of view, rather than judging it to be right or wrong. The student reevaluates and readjusts his knowledge and understanding. This emphasis builds confidence and self-esteem, which motivate the student to handle more complex problems in the future. Our PLN Mind Mapping exercise is an example of using the constructivist theory. It’s an interactive, creative approach to help us understand and clarify our goals to turn them into reality.
Social Constructivism graphic
Retrieved from jb00e.wordpress.com