Teacher can experience constructivism and constructionism through the Constructing Modern Knowledge Conference, a learning adventure for creative educators. Check out these videos from past conferences and the link for the 2011 conference.
“Constructionism asserts that knowledge is not simply transmitted from teacher to student, but is actively constructed by the mind of the learner” (Thurmond, 1999) while constructivism says, “each individual actively constructs his/her own meaning” (Orey, 2010). Students actively construct their own learning through generating and testing hypotheses. Not only should students be able to construct these elements, they should be able to clearly communicate their reasoning behind these elements. Teachers can assist students in generating their thinking through system analysis, problem solving, historical investigation, invention, experimental inquiry, and decision making. Technology tools such as spreadsheet software, data collection tools, and internet resources enhance the students abilities to accomplish these higher level thinking skills.
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| Constuctivism: What Does it Look Like? |
“People learn best when they build an external artifact or something they can share with others” (Orey, 2010). Artifacts such as an interactive spreadsheets can be used to “help students learn the content” of important classroom curriculum. Students are able to manipulate the data to then form patterns, predictions, and receive automatic feedback concerning their predictions. Also, technology data collection tools allow students to collect data while predicting and seeing patterns in a larger picture. Not only can they perform their own research, they can reach out to the greater community online to collaborate and share their research and findings. Finally, web resources such as interactive platforms and simulations provide the students the opportunity to apply their background knowledge, to make decisions, test their ideas, and see possible outcomes. These types of projects provide engaging environments bringing about important motivation for today’s student. “Project-Based Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that engages learners in complex activities” (Orey, 2001). These types of learning adventures veer far from the traditional teaching methods, yet provide valuable learning experiences promoting a strong constructivism approach to learning (Pitler, et al).
Learn more through this webquest about constructivism in the classroom.
References:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Program seven. Constructionist and constructivist learning theories [Webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Orey, M. (Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Main_Page
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Thurmond, A. (1999) Constructivism and Constructionism. Retrieved from: http://online.sfsu.edu/~foreman/itec800/finalprojects/annmariethurmond/
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Clipart retrieved from: http://constructivism512.pbworks.com/w/page/16397300/Constructivism-Concept-Map
2 comments:
Kitty,
Your post hit at the heart of what Constructionism can do for students in the classroom. Rather than the teacher simply telling the students what can happen in a given situation, the students are the ones that get to manipulate the materials and come to the decision on their own. The use of technology-based spreadsheet software is a great way to do such a thing. Depending on the framework of use, the students would be able to get instant feedback on the results of their manipulation; to determine if they are either correct or incorrect in their prediction. I am very curious to find out more about the conference that you had the video for at the start of your post. An entire learning experience dedicated to meaningful, hands-on learning. I wish that more teacher workshops and experiences focused on this type of learning.
-Nick Z.
Nick, I think the challenge for us teachers is learning the tools to put in our students hands and then teaching the students how to effectively think. These valuable tools allow them to find much more success once they step into the spotlight of "manipulating the materials." In teaching elementary school, I admit, I am more hesitant in letting go and allowing the students to form their own decisions, etc. I always wonder do they have enough foundational skills to springboard successfully into this way of learning.
Keep the class updated on the teacher conference as you learn more. It looks like an excellent opportunity!
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