Constructivism- Meaning, Types, Features

1. CONSTRUCTIVISM
Presented By: Surekha V S
Assistant Professor in Commerce
SVTEC Akkikkavu

2. Meaning
➢ It is a learning theory has its foundations in Philosophy, Anthropology as
well as Psychology
➢ Constructivist approach attempts to shift education from teacher
dominated focus to a student centred one.
➢ Constructivist learning based on students’ active participation in problem
solving & critical thinking regarding learning activity which they find
relevant & engaging

3. Types of Constructivism
Cognitive Constructivism:
● Intellectual growth is a natural process
● Learning based on teacher- learner relationship
● Cognitive structure develops as the learner passes through
specific developmental stages

4. Social Constructivism
● Learning occurs through interaction between the learner & the
society
● Biological aspects do not limit the intellectual growth of the
individual
● Social relations, Civilization, History, Literature makes man’s
intellectual growth

5. Features of Constructivism
❖ Encourages learner inquiry
❖ Emphasis on learning not teaching
❖ Nurtures learners’ natural curiosity
❖ Considers the beliefs & attitude of the learner
❖ Encourages & accepts learner autonomy & initiative
❖ Learners get the opportunity to construct new knowledge

6. BEHAVIOURISM Vs CONSTRUCTIVISM
➢ Teacher centered
➢ Teacher as expert
➢ Teacher as dispenser of
information
➢ Learning as a solitary activity
➢ Assessment through testing
➢ Emphasis on covering the
material
➢ Learner centered
➢ Teacher as a member of
learning community
➢ Teacher as a coach, mentor and
facilitator
➢ Assessment interwoven with
teaching
➢ Emphasis on discovering &
constructing knowledge