The document discusses four theoretical perspectives on learning - experiential perspective, constructivism, traditionalism, and concludes that the best approach is to use multiple perspectives appropriately for different lessons. The experiential perspective emphasizes applying knowledge from activities to real life. Constructivism views learning as constructed by learners through understanding their experiences. Traditionalism focuses on memorization and recall with little student involvement.

1. Reflections on Theoretical Perspectives by Patricia Silva

2. Experiential Perspective “ occurs when students participate in some activity, reflect upon the activity, use their analytical skills to derive some useful insight from the experience, and then incorporate their new understanding(s) into their daily lives” (Sachse, 2002) John Dewey believes that “Learning needs a structure and order, and must be based on a clear theory of experience, not simply the whim of teachers or students (Neill, 2005).

3. I have always believed very strongly that experience is the best teacher With anything the student learns the knowledge needs to be applicable to their personal lives. Otherwise, what good is the knowledge? Experiential makes it meaningful! Using the experiences for learning increases motivation while making learning meaningful and fun. Experiential Perspective

4. Constructivism Eighteenth century philosopher Giambattista Vico maintained that “humans can only clearly understand what they themselves have constructed” (“Building an Understanding of Constructivism,” 1995). “ If we believe that learners passively receive information then priority in instruction will be on knowledge transmission. If, on the other hand, we believe that learners actively construct knowledge in their attempts to make sense of their world, then learning will likely emphasize the development of meaning and understanding” (Murphy, E., 1997).

5. Constructivism learning is a process in which the student explores and builds to create their knowledge base. My favorite response to questions ---“What do you think?” usually followed by “Why?” encourages higher levels of thinking hands on style of teaching --- the kids are going to get their hands dirty and they are going to be into everything.

6. Traditionalism “ recitation, memorization, recall, testing, grades, promotion, and failure. …children primarily listen, sit quiet and attentive in seats, try to fix in their minds what the teacher told them, commit to memory the lessons assigned to them, and then, somewhat like a cormorant, be ready at all times to disgorge the intake….” (Hirsch, 1997)

7. Traditionalism there is little involvement on the students’ part. rote memorization and recall are very appropriate for activities such as multiplication facts, counting, and sight word recognition. should not be the bulk of your classroom teaching

8. In conclusion... There is a time and a lesson that each perspective will be appropriate for, but it is up to the teacher to find that right perspective for teaching a lesson in the best way. 

9. References Building an understanding of constructivism (1995). Southwest Educational Development Laboratory. Retrieved September 23, 2008 from http://www.sedl.org/scimath/compass/v01n03/understand.html Hirsch, Jr., E.D. (1997). Why traditional education is more progressive. The American Enterprise, 42-45. Retrieved September 23, 2008 from http://www.taemag.com/docLib/20030228_traditionaledMA97.pdf Murphy, E. (1997). Constructivism: From philosophy to practice. Retrieved September 20, 2008 from http:// www.stemnet.nf.ca/~elmurphy/emurphy/cle.html Neill, J. (2005, January 26) John Dewey, the modern father of experiential education. Retrieved September 22, 2008 from http:// wilderdom.com/experiential/ExperientialDewey.html Sachse, T. (2002). TLC experiential learning: Experiential learning theory. Retrieved September 22, 2008, from http://www.usoe.k12.ut.us/ate/tlc/cda/experiential.htm