The document discusses constructivism, a learning theory created by John Dewey that believes learning is constructed by learners based on their experiences. Constructivism is a student-centered approach where teachers must adapt to foster individual student learning through concrete experiences. Key aspects include students taking responsibility for their own learning based on their unique backgrounds and teachers motivating students by encouraging self-confidence and understanding of personal competence.

1. Pearson Bolt

2.  What is “Constructivism?”
 Who created it?
 How could it be practically applied to the
classroom?
 Constructivism & Me!

3.  A personalized theory of how individuals see
the world
 Subjective learning theory
 Roots in philosophy, psychology, and even
cybernetics!

4.  Constructivists believe that learning is
assembled within the mind
◦ Imagine a complex building as your mind and your
teacher as its architect
=

5.  Student-centered philosophy
◦ Teachers must adapt their methods in order to foster
learning in their students
 Concrete experience is vital to the learning
process
 Revolves around experiential learning
Back to Menu

6.  John Dewey
◦ American Philosopher, psychologist, and educational
reformer
◦ Believed schools and civil society needed reconstruction
◦ Founded the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

7.  Other Notable Constructivists
◦ Maria Montessori
◦ David A. Kolb
◦ Heinz von Foerster
◦ Paul Watzlawick
Back To Menu

8.  Responsibility for learning falls on the learner
◦ Since it is a subjective philosophy, it puts emphasis
on the pursuits of individual learners
 Social and cultural background of learner
◦ Tend to shape the way students learn
◦ Individualizes each student

9.  Motivation for Learning
◦ Students and teachers must work hand-in-hand to become
motivated learners
 Students: Self-confidence and understanding of personal
competence
 Teachers: Encouraging and assistive
Back to Menu

10.  Constructivism & My Teaching Philosophy
◦ Part of my teaching philosophy encompasses a
value for the individual
 Through learning, the individual comes to value and
appreciate his or herself
 Additionally, constructivism allows students to
understand the importance of their community
 As a student begins to value his or herself, they also begin
to value others
“Teachers should pollute their students’ minds with humanity.”
- Kurt Vonnegut

11.  Utilization in the Classroom
◦ First component
 Students
 Must be prepared to invest in their schoolwork
 Have an understanding of personal competence
 Students must be reminded that they really do have the
power to succeed

12.  Utilization in the Classroom (Cont.)
◦ Second Component
 As a constructivist teacher, I must
 Be attentive to my students and their needs
 Be consistent in words of encouragement and affirmation
 Do everything in my power to capture and hold my
students’ attention