The constructivist and constructionist learning theories, when applied, provide students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have acquired and then create, build, or demonstrate what they have learned. These theories develop positive and impactful learning environments. These theories of learning are important part of the educational experience of students (Orey, 2008). Students perform and use the knowledge that is learned firsthand, instead of the through the experiences of another party. By demonstrating their understanding, the learning becomes more meaningful and longer lasting.
An instructional strategy that correlates with this theory is generating and testing hypotheses. When using this strategy, it is important that students have an understanding of their hypotheses and conclusions and have the ability to structure the task to aid in generating and testing hypotheses (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). By having students generate the hypotheses and then test it, they are actively engaged in the learning content. Students are also developing their own way to share and demonstrate their findings.
Technology can play an important role in this learning process. Students of various ages are able to complete web searches to locate information, whether structured or not. There is also a variety of software and applications that can be used to share findings. Within my 2nd grade classroom, students work with PowerPoint to develop slideshows to not only illustrates their process, but also conclusions drawn when exploring whether toothpaste is a solid or liquid.
Resources
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2011). Constructionist and Constructivism Learning Theories. Baltimore:Author.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Jocelyn, you are so right technology enhances the learning process because it provides the students with additonal resources to work with and manipulate. We as teachers have the task of making sure the work we are assigning our students is meaningful and relevant as well as work hard to get them to understand the value of the lesson wwhich is why we should never assign busy work it is a waste of everyones time. I know there are rquirements we have to fulfill, but we should try hard to make sure the students understand why it is important for them to know the information so they can make it work for them and learning is taking place, the thing we want so desperately to happen in the classroom.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with your comment. No matter what the task, it is important to consider best practice for the students. While at times it may mean additional upfront prep for the teacher, the long term results are highly motivated and engaged students who excell academically and in the real world.
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