Attending classes, taking notes, doing homework and assignments, and taking tests are central to the traditional education system. Passive absorption of knowledge is a critical aspect of the system that offers limited scope for students’ overall development.
Besides, it promotes rote memorisation, which limits understanding of multifaceted concepts and their real-world application. Therefore, constructivist learning theory reshapes the traditional teaching and learning system, helping to incorporate a dynamic educational environment.
But what is constructivist learning theory? And how does it elevate the education system? Let us have a look:
What is Constructivist Learning Theory?
Constructivist learning theory relates to students constructing their knowledge depending on their understanding, experiences, and interactions with the world. It focuses on empowering students to explore and engage in different learning experiences.
Furthermore, the theory emphasises a notable shift in the conventional educational approach by including unique pedagogical techniques. Consequently, students can participate in many interactive learning exercises, allowing them to encounter complex issues and develop relevant solutions.
Also, to understand the core of constructivist learning theory, it is crucial to know its key principles.
Key Principles of Constructivism
Constructing Meaning From Experience
Learners engage in various well-planned classroom activities, wherein they get the opportunity to explore different concepts through experiential learning.
Collaborative Learning
The theory posits learning as a social process, highlighting the importance of students working together to attain a common goal through shared understanding and discussion.
Teachers Act as Facilitators
Teachers play the role of facilitator, providing timely guidance and encouraging independent thinking.
Incorporation of New and Old Knowledge
Enhancing students’ existing knowledge with new insights by comparing and contrasting new information and asking open-ended questions.
Reflective Engagement
Providing opportunities for students to reflect on their learning through particular exercises such as journaling, mindful meditation, etc.
Assessment as a Teaching Tool
Using assessments as one of the primary tools to enhance learning and teaching.
Authentic Activities
Teachers plan and implement authentic activities, allowing students to apply their skills and knowledge to real-world situations.
Implementing the theory within the classroom requires elaborate planning, ensuring that the teaching methodologies align with the above key principles. Furthermore, teachers can select appropriate strategies that can create a stimulating classroom environment.
Strategies of Constructivist Learning Theory
1. Scaffolding
Scaffolding is an important part of the approach as it helps to establish a structure through which teachers can provide temporary support. Firstly, teachers identify students’ existing levels of understanding and set a higher goal, keeping with the proximal development process.
They provide essential support, which includes guidance, hints, or prompts, such as breaking down tasks into small and manageable steps. At the same time, they provide examples or models and offer real-time feedback accordingly.
Students gradually become confident in their capabilities as they progress step by step; hence, teachers reduce their support to empower independent learning.
2. Inquiry-Based Learning
Asking questions and finding relevant answers and explanations is a fundamental aspect of the constructivist learning theory. It allows learners to move beyond the restraints of conventional classroom learning, which necessitates students being overly reliant on the teacher’s instructions.
For example, students can create a presentation showing the after-effects of a hydrogen bomb, or they can investigate historical events from different perspectives. As a result, it enables students to explore different perspectives and develop critical thinking skills.
3. Reflective Assessments
Self-directed learning is synonymous with the learning approach; hence, it is equally vital for students to self-evaluate their progress. Teachers can recommend a few effective techniques for students to conduct reflective assessments, such as:
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Journal Prompts
Students can maintain a journal, wherein they can document whatever they have learnt after completing an assignment or project.
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Rubric-based Self-Evaluation
They can use rubric-based self-assessments to evaluate their performance on particular tasks and assignments.
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Exit Tickets
Students can answer a few mandatory questions that help assess their understanding of the concepts that the teacher taught in the classroom.
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Peer Feedback
When students provide feedback, it allows them to learn from each other and provides a chance to evaluate their others’s work.
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4. Teacher as a Guide
Constructivist learning is a student-centric approach; hence, students take an active role in the process, whereas teachers facilitate learning.
5. Problem-Based Learning
Problem-based learning, or PBL, is a strategic pedagogical approach where students engage in complex real-world problems and solve them through practical solutions.
The Role of Technology in Constructivist Learning Theory
Facilitating education without technology in today’s day and age is unthinkable, especially when the world is interconnected and relies on effective communication and solutions. Hence, teachers can leverage technological tools like student information systems to implement constructivism in education.
In fact, they can use the system to streamline student data, including assessments, assignments, projects, grades, and attendance. Moreover, the system helps them conduct student data analysis, helping to identify individual learning strengths and requirements.
On the other hand, communication systems like video conferencing tools are immensely useful to collaborate during group projects. Likewise, students can use online forums to post messages, discuss topics, and participate in threaded conversations.
In effect, the file-sharing feature enables instructors to share articles, videos, podcasts, etc. as reference materials to improve their research work.
Bottom Line
Constructivist learning theory provides an effective structure to establish a stimulating and engaging classroom environment. It focuses on incorporating collaboration, critical thinking practices, and constructive approaches that promote independent thinking.
Technology and well-planned lessons and assessments are vital aspects that help students attain the core objects of the learning theory.
Author :
Poonam Nathani,
Academic Consultant