Learning Theory Constructivism By Dan Hill EDTC 600

Learning Theory: Constructivism By Dan Hill EDTC 600

Overview � Constructivism � History of Constructivism � Constructivism Today

Constructivism � Idea that learners construct knowledge for themselves � Each learner individually and socially constructs meaning as he or she learns � Learning involves constructing one's own knowledge from one's own experiences.

History � Noticed in last 50 years � Jean Piaget-Great Pioneer of Constructivism ◦ Swiss Philosopher ◦ Studied learning habits of children (4 stages) �Sensorimotor stage (0 -2 yrs) �Experience World through movement & senses �Preoperational stage (2 -7 yrs) �Magical thinking occurs �Concrete operational stage (7 -11 yrs) �Logical thinking develops �Formal operational stage (>11 yrs) �Abstract reasoning

Constructivism Today � Teachers ◦ ◦ do not teach rather facilitate Helps students learn Keeps interest high Students relate to their own life experiences No two experiences are the same

Example: Constructivism Today in Math � 15 Years Ago ◦ Teacher-centered ◦ Teachers shows a problem on the board ◦ Student(s) take notes ◦ Student(s) practice problem ◦ Low learning stimulus ◦ Change bad � Today ◦ Student-centered ◦ Teacher still shows problem on the board ◦ Student(s) relate the problem to life experiences or hands on practice ◦ Medium to high learning stimulus ◦ Change keeps students learning and involved

Summary � Constructivism � History of Constructivism � Constructivism Today

Questions…

Bibliography � � Azzarito, Laura. , & Ennis, Catherine D. "Sense of Connection: Toward Postmodern Social Constructivist Physical Education. " Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport 72. 1 (March 2001): A-57. Academic One. File. Gale. BCR Regis University. 28 May 2008 White-Clark, Renee, Maria Di. Carlo, and Nancy Gilchriest. "'Guide on the side': an instructional approach to meet mathematics standards. (Report). " High School Journal 91. 4 (April-May 2008): 40(5). Academic One. File. Gale. BCR Regis University. 28 May 2008 Web Site http: //find. galegroup. com. dml. regis. edu/itx/start. do? prod. Id=AONE. http: //www. funderstanding. com/constructivism. cfm http: //www. wikipidia. org