What is Constructivism?
Constructivism Through the Ages… Blah, Blah, Blah…
As an educator, what is your role?
What role do your students assume?
Goals of a Constructivist Classroom… For students to master content For students to understand content For students to apply content
Key Characteristics of Constructivism… There are different kinds of knowledge Prior knowledge affects learning Collaborative knowledge supersedes individual knowledge
Advantages… Encourages critical thinking Allows for academic freedom Celebrates and supports differentiation Engages students Encourages independence Provides authenticity for students
Disadvantages Teachers must be exceedingly knowledgeable Takes more planning than traditional teaching Assignments are time-consuming Parental concern regarding non-traditional grading system Could take years to modify current educational practices Requires professional development Classrooms have the illusion of being chaotic
Constructivist Learning Approach: The 5 E’s
Engage
Explore
Explain
Elaborate
Evaluate
5E Lesson Plan: Tornado Watch