+ An Introduction to Constructivism Presented by Jim Horwat

+ Constructivism is… Active Student-Focused Democratic Example of a Constructivist Classroom

+ Core Tenets Learners create knowledge (vs. absorbing knowledge) – Observations – Experiences

+ Core Tenets Learners form “Bodies” of knowledge… (which may or may not be accurate) – Schemas – Theories

+ Core Tenets Children are “not a blank slate” – Add to their own current conceptions – Expand their knowledge through play

+ Two Prominent Constructivist Theorists Humans cannot be “given” knowledge which they can immediately use Learners must “construct” their own knowledge Schemas grow and change through “assimilation” and “accommodation” “Constructivism is the recognition that reality is a product of human intelligence interacting with experience in the real world” “This reality construction depends both on properties of the object and mental activities of a person” Jean PiagetDavid Elkind

+ Individual Constructivism – Learners create knowledge through their interactions w/ environment – Learners construct meaning from their experience

+ Social Constructivism – Working together improves understanding – “Cooperation” (makes it happen) Unforgettable Example of Cooperation

+ A Constructivist Teacher… Builds on what students already know Emphasizes interactive group discussion Acts as a “Guide” or “Coach” vs. an “Expert” Asks good questions Allows multiple interpretations / expressions 1st Example of a Constructivist Teacher 2nd Example of a Constructivist Teacher

+ A Constructivist Classroom uses… Group Work Classroom Discussions Presentations Hands-On Activities Field Trips

+ Some Criticisms of Constructivism It’s Elitist “Group Think” Hard to Assess or Test

+ Traditional Classroom vs. Constructivist Classroom (see class handout)

+ Some Benefits of Constructivism – Promotes Social Communication Skills – Ownership of knowledge, accountability, and responsibility – Students enjoy learning and learn more

+ References Educational Broadcasting Corporation. (2004). Workshop: Constructivism as a Paradigm for Teaching and Learning. Retrieved from Ormrod, J. E. (2012). Essentials of educational psychology: Big ideas to guide effective teaching (3 rd ed.). Upper Saddle, New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc. Constructivist teaching methods. (n.d.). In Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from Powell, Elizabeth. Is constructivism the best philosophy of education? [PowerPoint slides]. Retrieved from is-constructivism-the-best-philosophy-of-educationhttp:// is-constructivism-the-best-philosophy-of-education Helix, Hedera (2013, May 11). Social Constructivism. [Blog]. Retrieved from Marsh, Destinee (Producer). (2012, September 25). A constructivist classroom. [Video file]. Retrieved from