Learning Theories Constructivism Overview: The constructivist learning theory has evolved during the twentieth century from

m a rejection of the behaviorist theory, that learning is an external process guided by behavior modification, into that which asserts learning takes place in the mind. Constructivists rejected the idea that learning occurs only as a result of an external catalyst by shifting the focus of learning to the learner herself. Constructivists surmise that learners are capable of creating their own version of reality, or what is, using personal experience, previous knowledge, and the overt manipulation of information in order to build scaffolding to the truth. Constructivism is an Information Processing Theory, based on the cognitive psychology of learning. Contributors: Major contributions to the theory of Constructivism stem from the theories of cognitive psychologists such as Jean Piaget, Giambattista Vico, John Dewey and Lev Semyonovich Vygotsky, Gestalt psychology also had an influence on constructivist theory development. Major contributors to the specific area of modern constructivist learning theory are the philosopher and pragmatist Richard Rorty and cognitive psychologist Jerome Seymour Bruner. Major Principles: The major precept of the constructivist learning theory is that learners apply previous knowledge to new experiences and must actively manipulate knowledge to make information relevant and meaningful. Learning must take place within a relevant context. Students must see a connection between what they already know, the educational content, and their lives in order to be motivated to learn. Constructivist principles include the contention that people can improve how they learn and that, even though active physical engagement in learning must take place, the most important element of the learning process must take place in the mind. The constructivist theory also asserts that learning is not an immediate process, learners need time to cognitively mold information and understanding can be improved with interaction and collaboration with others. Constructivist learning theory is a goal oriented and student centered, inquiry based, approach to learning. Application: There are many established applications of constructivist pedagogy being applied in classrooms today. Problem based learning supports inquiry based learning through collaborative investigation of real world problems related to curricular goals. Learning is assessed during the investigation process and in consideration of an artifact created by the student that demonstrates understanding. Smaller scale application of the constructivist theory can be found in any inquiry based learning techniques where the instructor acts as facilitator and guide in the process of exploration with students constructing artifacts that represent learning.

Barry Janzen References: 1. Fosnot, Chatherine Towmey, Ed. (1996). Constructivism. Theory, Perspectives, and Practice. New York, NY: Teachers College Press. (ERIC Document No. ED396998). Retrieved from ERIC database. 2. Jonassen D.H. and Rohrer-Murphy L. (1999). Activity theory as a framework for designing constructivist learning environments. Educational Technology Research and Development 47(1), 61-79. doi: 10.1007/BF02299477 3. Learning Theories Knowledgebase (2011, June). at Learning-Theories.com. Retrieved June 14th, 2011 from http://www.learning-theories.com/ 4. Medrano, H (2005) History of Constructivism. Retrieved June 14th, 2011 from http://halmedrano.com/527/foundations/index.html 5. Jonassen, D.H., & Land S.M. (Eds.). (2000). Theoretical Foundations of Learning Environments. Mahwah, New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Publishers.