Constructivism is a theory of learning that suggests individuals construct knowledge and meaning from their experiences. Key aspects of constructivism include problem solving, hands-on experimentation, concept development through logical reasoning, and authentic, engaged learning. Constructivism informs teaching approaches that involve scaffolding learning experiences and allowing students to construct their own understandings through exploration and discovery rather than direct instruction. Major theorists who contributed to constructivism include Piaget, Vygotsky, and Dewey.

1. Jeanna S.

2. Menu
 Points of Constructivism
 Theorists
 John Dewey
 Classroom Implications
 How does Constructivism affect
teaching?

3. Problem Hands-on
Solving Experimentation
Constructivism
is characterized
by
Concept Logical
Development Reasoning

4. Authentic Engaged/Active
Learning Learning
Constructivism
is characterized
by
Whole Language Socially
Approach to Literacy Constructed

5. Leaders of Constructivism
http://educationupdate.com/
http://webspace.ship.edu/cgb archives/2005/Nov/html/col-
oer/piaget.html jeromebutler.html
Jean Piaget Jerome Bruner

6. Leaders of Constructivism
http://vygotsky.afraid.org/ http://www.iep.utm.edu/dewey/
Lev Vygotsky John Dewey

7. Progressive
Education
John
Educator Philosopher
Dewey
Psychologist

8. Social
Critic
World John Philanthropist
Peace
Dewey
Political
Activist

9. Teachers must…
 Scaffold
 Construct knowledge through experiments
 Not give answers, but allow students to
think for themselves
 Help students rethink their ideas by asking
questions they wouldn’t think of on their
own
 Immerse students in a language rich
environment

10. Students must…
 Experiment- hands-on
 Encounter:
 Problem Based Learning
 Anchored Instruction
 Cognitive apprenticeship
 Scaffolding

11. Constructivism is important in
my teaching
 Constructivism, Cognitive, and
Behavioral Learning Theories are
all very important
 Constructivism will be how my
students will acquire and retain
knowledge

12. Constructivism is important in
my teaching
 As a teacher, I must understand how
children gain meaningful and productive
knowledge that can be applied to new
situations
 I cannot transmit knowledge to my
students directly
 Information must be mentally acted
on, manipulated and transformed in
order to have meaning for the learner