WK8 Constructivist learning central ideas

Question 1

What is constructivist learning?

Answer 1

emphasises the active role or the learner in building their understanding and making sense of their learning.

Question 2

Give some examples of constructivist theorists

Answer 2

Piaget, Vygotsky, Bruner

Question 3

What are the two central ideas of constructivism?

Answer 3

1. Learner must be active in constructing knowledge
2. Social interactions are key

Question 4

What are the three forms of constructivism?

Answer 4

Psychological(cognitive) , Social and Radical

Question 5

What is Psychological/cognitive constructivism?

Answer 5

Use info to understand and solve problems
- build cognitive structures (new experiences with existing knowledge)
- individual aspects (identity, self concept)

Question 6

What is Social constructivism?

Answer 6

• Social interaction, cultural tools, and activity shape individual development and learning.
• Learning occurs within social and cultural contexts.

Question 7

What is radical constructivism?

Answer 7

• Personal knowledge
• no right or wrong
• understanding others is challenging

Question 8

What are the three explanations for knowledge construction?

Answer 8

• Directed by realities of external world
• Directed by internal processes
• Directed by both external and internal factors

Question 9

What does ‘Directed by realities of external world’ mean in terms of knowledge construction

Answer 9

• Individuals shape their worldview by understanding
• teaching provides info for personal understanding.

Question 10

What does ‘Directed by internal processes’ mean in terms of knowledge construction

Answer 10

• Learning builds on prior knowledge
• self-discovery is crucial, surpassing mere instruction.

Question 11

What does ‘Directed by both external and internal factors’ mean in terms of knowledge construction

Answer 11

• Knowledge gained via interactions of cognitive and environmental/social factors
• Guided teaching, scaffolding based on prior understanding