{"id":1308,"date":"2021-02-21T18:10:31","date_gmt":"2021-02-21T18:10:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/educationaltechnology.net\/?p=1308"},"modified":"2021-02-21T18:10:31","modified_gmt":"2021-02-21T18:10:31","slug":"constructivist-learning-theory","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/educationaltechnology.net\/constructivist-learning-theory\/","title":{"rendered":"Constructivist Learning Theory"},"content":{"rendered":"
The constructivist theory is based around the idea that learners are active participants in their learning journey; knowledge is constructed based on experiences. As events occur, each person reflects on their experience and incorporates the new ideas with their prior knowledge. Learners develop schemas<\/em> to organize acquired knowledge. This model was entrenched in learning theories by Dewey, Piaget<\/a>, Vygotsky<\/a>, Gagne<\/a>, and Bruner.<\/p>\n See also: Cognitive Apprenticeship<\/a><\/p>\n The theory of constructivist learning is vital to understanding how students learn. The idea that students actively construct knowledge is central to constructivism. Students add (or build) their new experiences on top of their current foundation of understanding. As stated by\u00a0Woolfolk (1993) “learning is active mental work, not passive reception of teaching”.<\/p>\n <\/a><\/p>\n As an educator, it is important to understand the theory of constructivist learning. Each student that enters your classroom has a unique perspective<\/a> on life that has been created by their unique experiences. This will impact their learning. If the basis of the constructivist theory states that students construct new knowledge on what they have already had, the entry point of their learning journey is of utmost importance. Learning theories are as valuable as credentials to educators; it is important to understand what will affect the learning journey of your students.<\/p>\n The theory of constructivism has many elements. These principles outline the theory as a whole and how they affect the learning of the students. The main points are listed below:<\/p>\n See also: Erikson\u2019s Stages of Psychosocial Development<\/a><\/p>\n It is not enough to simply know the theory of constructivist learning. Educators must also know how to implement it in their classrooms. Their goal is to create a welcoming environment that promotes active engagement in learning. In the theory of constructivist learning, instructors act as facilitators. They must promote collaboration and adjust their lessons based on the prior level of understanding of the class. Once they identify students\u2019 existing knowledge, instructors must work to grow the understanding in those areas.<\/p>\n There are four key areas that are crucial to the success of a constructivist classroom:<\/p>\n These four areas must be addressed in order for the constructivist classroom to be successful. As you can see, it differs greatly from the traditional classroom. Constructivist classrooms are more student-centered and the learning revolves around their interests and questions. Teachers guide learning by implementing group activities, creating collaborative dialogue, and facilitating interactive experiences. Students build on their prior knowledge and construct new understanding based on the lessons taught. Dialogue and negotiation are also key components to successful learning.<\/p>\n In the table below, you can see how the constructivist classroom compares to the traditional classroom. Each style has its own benefits and consequences.<\/p>\n\n
Constructivism in Education<\/h2>\n
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