1. 1.2. Theoretical Framework
According to : Jerome Bruner (1915-2016)
A Major theme in the theoretical framework of Bruner is that learning is an active process in which
learners construct new ideas or concepts based upon their current/past knowledge. The learner
selects and transforms information, constructs hypotheses, and makes decisions, relying on a
cognitive structure to do so.
Bruner (1966) states that a theory of instruction should address four major aspects: (1) predisposition
towards learning, (2) the ways in which a body of knowledge can be structured so that it can be most
readily grasped by the learner, (3) the most effective sequences in which to present material, and (4)
the nature and pacing of rewards and punishments. Good methods for structuring knowledge should
result in simplifying, generating new propositions, and increasing the manipulation of information.
In 1899, John Dewey published the pamphlet that made him famous, The School and Society, and
promulgated many key precepts of later education reforms. Dewey insisted that the old model of
schooling—students sitting in rows, memorizing and reciting—was antiquated. Students should be
active, not passive. They required compelling and relevant projects, not lectures. Students should
become problem solvers. Interest, not fear, should be used to motivate them. They should cooperate,
not compete.
According to Vygotsky Zone of Proximal Development (1978) which states that learning is social is the
basis of constructivism. Students learn through collaboration which is easily accomplished in distance
education with advances in educational technology. The Community of Inquiry framework (Garrison,
2007) outlines three presences; social, cognitive, and teacher. This framework has been critiqued and
further research is necessary. Trello (n.d) is a user-friendly collaboration tool for higher education that
supports the constructivist learning the constructivist learning theory, which allows students to be
self-directed and take ownership of their learning.
Constructivist theory is in favor of letting students to construct their point of view of the world,
philosophy of living, technical expertise, and knowledge structures; emphasizes one’s learning
initiative, and Distance Learning Instruction through Blackboard situational learning experiences. The
core of this theory is discovery learning. Students learn by doing. The influence of Constructivist
theory on the development and implementation of educational technology is mainly reflected in the
pioneering educational games, multimedia development and dynamic online interactions.
