Constructivism
Definition
Constructivism is a philosophy of learning founded on the premise
that, by reflecting on our experiences, we construct our own
understanding of the world we live in. Each of us generates our own
“rules” and “mental models,” which we use to make sense of our
experiences. Learning, therefore, is simply the process of adjusting
our mental models to accommodate new experiences.
Discussion
There are several guiding principles of constructivism:
1. Learning is a search for meaning. Therefore, learning must start
with the issues around which students are actively trying to
construct meaning.
2. Meaning requires understanding wholes as well as parts. And
parts must be understood in the context of wholes. Therefore,
the learning process focuses on primary concepts, not isolated
facts.
3. In order to teach well, we must understand the mental models
that students use to perceive the world and the assumptions
they make to support those models.
4. The purpose of learning is for an individual to construct his or
her own meaning, not just memorize the “right” answers and
regurgitate someone else’s meaning. Since education is
inherently interdisciplinary, the only valuable way to measure
learning is to make the assessment part of the learning
process, ensuring it provides students with information on the
quality of their learning.
How Constructivism Impacts Learning
Curriculum–Constructivism calls for the elimination of a standardized
curriculum. Instead, it promotes using curricula customized to the
students’ prior knowledge. Also, it emphasizes hands-on problem
solving.
Instruction–Under the theory of constructivism, educators focus on
making connections between facts and fostering new understanding
in students. Instructors tailor their teaching strategies to student
responses and encourage students to analyze, interpret, and predict
information. Teachers also rely heavily on open-ended questions and
promote extensive dialogue among students.
Assessment–Constructivism calls for the elimination of grades and
standardized testing. Instead, assessment becomes part of the
learning process so that students play a larger role in judging their
own progress.