This document discusses key figures and principles of constructivism. It outlines Jean Piaget and Jerome Bruner's contributions to cognitive learning theory and constructionism. It also mentions Giambattista Vico's view that human life is ruled by chance and learning occurs through trial and error. The document then covers key points of constructivist learning theory, including that learning is active/ever-changing and involves linking new information to prior knowledge. It analyzes classroom implications from teaching and learning perspectives, emphasizing student involvement, hands-on methods, and interactive environments. It concludes that constructivist concepts promote discovery learning and benefit students and teachers when integrated into classrooms.

1. Ben and Kaley
EME 2040
Team 6
Source:
http://cganschow.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/constructivism.jpg

2. Key Figures in Constructivism
 Jean Piaget- considered one of
the “fathers” of the
constructionist movement. He
developed the cognitive
learning theory, which
described four stages of
development:
sensorimotor, preoperational, co
ncrete operational, and formal
operational. Also, Piaget is
credited with creating the
concepts of
adaptation, assimilation, and
accommodation. Source: http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/piaget.gif

3.  Jerome Bruner- credited with creating a construction framework
based on cognition. Felt that students learn best through
exploration and inquiry among themselves. Believes that there
is no “right answer” in intelligent discussion among educators
and students.
 Giambattista Vico- An Italian political philosopher, also shared
Bruner’s views. He believed that trying to apply reason and logic
to normal human life was impossible. In fact, according to
Vico, human life was ruled by chance. In his eyes, students
should discover themselves/learn through trial and error.
Source: http://exploration.uoregon.edu/

4. Key Points of Constructivist Learning Theory
 Constructivist Learning Theory is based on the
principle that learning is an active, ever-changing
process.
 In this process, the learner is an “information
constructor” who links new material learned with
compiled prior knowledge.
 Goes against other learning theories that insist the
learner operates as a “tabula rasa” or blank slate.

5.  Students’ knowledge gained under constructivism is
created by personal experiences and testing
hypotheses.
 Teachers try to encourage students to explore a
concept further on their own through this theory.
 Lastly, according to this learning theory, each
individual interprets learning in a different manner.

6. Classroom Implications
(Teaching View)
 Curriculum taught as a whole – “big concept”
 Teaches seek point of view/learning method
 Teacher-student interaction encouraged
 Hands-on teaching methods
 “Coaching” students
 Technology used to help teach
 Activities based on primary sources

7. Classroom Implications
(Learning View)
 Student involvement
 Viewed as a thinker – “outside the box”
 Primarily group work
 Exhibitions & portfolios
 Interactive environment
 Computer usage encouraged

8. Constructivism in Use
We believe that constructivist concepts are important.
Using them in the classroom is beneficial to both the
students and the teacher. Integrating technology to
promote students interaction and involvement has
positive effect on classrooms. It promotes a hands-on
learning experience for the entire class and is shown to
be very efficient. Constructivism itself is revolutionary
because it allows students to discover for themselves a
large amount of information about any topic.

9. Information Credit
 http://www.learning-theories.com/constructivism.html