2. Key Points
• Constructivism: based on a type of learning in which the
learner forms, or constructs, much of what he or she
learns or comprehends.
• Constructivism emphasizes an integrated curriculum
where students learn a subject in various ways or
through many different activities.
• Learners actively construct or create their own subjective
representations of objective reality.
I thought this was
an interesting chart
describing
Constructivism.
3. Jean Piaget (1896-1980)
• Theories strongly influenced the constructive movement.
• Psychologist who developed the cognitive learning theory.
• Defined four cognitive stages.
– Sensorimotor: when learning takes place primarily through the child
senses and motor actions
– Preoperational: where children begin to use symbols and images.
– Concrete Operational: where children begin to think logically.
– Formal Operational: where children transition from concrete thinking to
more abstract.
• Defined adaptation: children’s cognitive understanding or
development at any given time.
4. Jerome Bruner (1915- )
• An American psychologist and educator, who proposed
that learning is an active process which the learned
constructs new ideas or concepts based on his current or
past knowledge.
• Believes that constructivist learners are participatory
learners; they are actively engaged in the learning
process.
5. Classroom Implications
• What the Teacher Does Under This Theory
– Without technology: Teachers prepare a experiment
for the students to perform. The teacher observes
and listens when the class comes together a
discussion.
– With technology: Prepare a research project for the
students. Observes the students presentation.
• The role the teacher takes on is the researcher.
They need to watch, listen, and ask the students
questions in order to learn about them.
6. Classroom Implications Continued…
• What the Students Do Under This Theory
– Without technology: Students are given an experiment to
perform. They come back together as a class to discuss results.
– With technology: Students are given a research project. They
use computers and other resources to complete their research.
Presentation to the class.
• A Constructivist Classroom is student centered.
• Activities are interactive and student centered, so
students are empowered by a teacher who is a
facilitator/consultant.
7. My Thoughts on This Theory for My
Own Teaching
• I really like the idea of the teacher acting as a consultant
for the students. Having the classroom student centered
seems like a very good atmosphere for students to learn
in. As a student myself, I know I prefer interactive
activities, as they help me learn better. When I am a
teacher myself, I do plan on making my classroom a
Constructivist classroom.
