This document discusses constructivist learning tools called mindtools. It defines mindtools as computer-based tools that function as intellectual partners for learners to facilitate critical thinking and higher-order learning. Some examples of mindtools include databases, semantic networks, spreadsheets, and simulations. The document outlines how mindtools can help knowledge construction, engage critical thinking, and promote transferrable learning skills. It also provides criteria for evaluating mindtools and discusses how teachers can use mindtools to encourage constructive learning in the classroom and for their own professional development.

1. CONSTRUCTIVIST LEARNING
TOOLS:MINDTOOLS
Submitted by
Reenu Mariam Jose
M.Ed. First year student
Mar Theophilus Training College

2. CONSTRUCTIVISM
• Constructivism is an important learning theory that
educators used to help their students learn.
• Constructivism is based on the idea that people
actively construct or make their own knowledge, and
that reality is determined by your experiences as a
learner.
• Student – centered learning is the essence.

4. Mind tools: Definition
 Mindtools are cognitive tools such as selected computer
programs that stimulate learning and thinking in students.
 Computer based
 Available
 Affordable
 Help with knowledge construction
 Generalizable
 Critical thinking
 Transferrable learning
 Simple powerful formalism
 Easily learnable

5. What are Mindtools?
• “Mindtools are
computer-based tools
and learning
environments that have
been adapted or
developed to function as
intellectual partners
with the learner in order
to engage and facilitate
critical thinking and
higher order learning .”
( Jonassen)

6. DAVID .H. JONASSEN

8. Parts of Mindtools
• Semantic Modelling
• Dynamic Modelling
• Information and
Interpretation
• Knowledge
Construction
• Conversation and
Collaboration

9. Examples of Mindtools
 Database
 Semantic Network
 Spread sheet
 Expert System
 Modelling Tools
 Micro worlds
 Word processors
 Graphics
 Adventure games
and
 Simulations

10. Practical Reasons of using Mindtools
 Lack of Software :
available Computer
Assisted Instruction(CAI)
materials only cover a
fraction of the curricula.
 Cost : purchasing even just
a few CAI programs is very
expensive.
 Efficiency: a small set of
Mindtools can be used
across the curricula . This is
also more time efficient,
because less time spent
learning to use different
programs.

11. Mindtools for Teachers
Software
applications
(preferably free) that
teachers can use to
teach conceptual
development.
Two types:
 Desktop applications
 Web-based applications

12.  Programs for teacher training skill need to train (aspiring)
teachers make use of both traditional and web 2.O
information and communication technologies as
mindtools for themselves and their students.
 Teachers can use these tools to engage their students in
individual, collaborative, and collective critical thinking
and knowledge creation activities.
 Mindtools can be applied for cooperation (e.g.; between
teachers, teacher educators, and student teachers ) and
collaboration (e.g.; with other teachers, experts,
designers, and on pedagogical projects)

13.  When used as a mindtool, databases can help
learners integrate and interrelate discrete bits of
content, making them more meaningful and more
memorable.
 In using a spreadsheet , learners can design use and
fill in values and formulas requiring them to use
existing rules, generate new rules to describe
relationships and organize information , thus
engaging critical thinking , forcing them to think
more deeply.

14.  Teachers must continuously develop themselves and
learn and in this learning process , mindtools can
play an important role.
 Teachers and aspirant teachers must learn how to use
mindtools both as a means to encourage constructive
learning in the classroom and as a tool for their own
professional growth.

15. Curriculum Areas
Enhancement of reading comprehension
And all kinds of writing skills
Mathematics and Science
Social studies
Foreign language learning
Technology subjects
Arts

16. The application can be used to represent knowledge.
Generalizable to Content in different subjects.
Engages learner in critical thinking about subject.
Develops skills transferable to other subjects.
Amplifies thinking.
Software should be learnable in two hours or less.
The Pedagogical Criteria for Evaluating
Mindtools

17. Using Mindtools In Education

18. What is Mindtools.com?
Established in 1996
The site helps more than 15,000,000 people each
year.
Mindtools.com provides resources, tools, and
teachers leadership, team management, problem-
solving, project management, personal productivity
and team-working skills.
Major Corporations and government agencies around
the world use Mindtools.com to improve
management and leadership skills , and support
organizational development initiatives.
Mindtools is awarded a Queen’s Award for
enterprise- the United Kingdom’s top business award.

20. REFERENCES
 Blignaut , A.S. (1999) , The use of computer-based
mindtools in teaching and learning, University of
Pretoria, Department of Didactics.
 Jonassen , D.H. (2000) , Computers as mindtools for
schools: Engaging critical thinking (2nd ed), Upper
Saddle River, NJ; Prentice Hall.
 Kirschner , P.A., & Wopereis, I.G.J.H. (2003),
Mindtools for teacher communities: A European
Perspective. Technology, Pedagogy and Edsucation,
12, 107-126.