Constructivism
What is it?
Constructivism is a theory of learning and knowledge acquisition that emphasizes the active role of learners in constructing their own understanding and knowledge through experiences and interactions with their environment. This perspective contrasts with traditional views of learning as a passive process where knowledge is transmitted from teacher to student.
It is based on the idea that learners do not simply passively receive information, but rather actively interpret and make sense of it based on their prior knowledge and experiences.
This process of interpretation and meaning-making is known as construction.
1. Active Learning:
Learners actively engage with content by exploring, questioning, and experimenting.
2. Prior Knowledge:
New knowledge builds upon the learner's existing knowledge and experiences.
3. Social Interaction:
Learning often occurs in a social context where interaction with peers and instructors facilitates understanding.
4. Contextual Learning:
Knowledge is best understood and retained when presented in a meaningful and relevant context.
5. Reflection:
Learners construct knowledge through reflection on their experiences.
Types of Constructivism
1. Cognitive Constructivism (Jean Piaget)
Focuses on how individuals construct knowledge through cognitive processes.
Emphasizes stages of cognitive development.
Learning involves adapting to new information through assimilation and accommodation.
2. Social Constructivism (Lev Vygotsky)
Highlights the role of social and cultural contexts in learning.
Learning is mediated through language and interaction with more knowledgeable others.
The concept of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) describes the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can do with guidance.
3. Radical Constructivism
Suggests that knowledge is entirely constructed by the individual and is subjective, rather than reflecting an objective reality.