Constructivism is a theory of knowledge and learning that suggests people actively construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world based on their experiences and interactions. Rather than viewing learning as a process of passively absorbing information, constructivism sees it as an active process of making sense of the world through individual and social experiences.
Key features of constructivism include:
- Active Learning: Learners don’t passively receive information but actively build their own understanding by connecting new knowledge with what they already know.
- Knowledge Construction: According to constructivism, knowledge is not something that is simply “discovered” but is constructed by the learner. Each individual’s understanding is shaped by their personal experiences, contexts, and previous knowledge.
- Social Interaction: Constructivism emphasizes the role of social interactions in learning. Discussions, collaboration, and the sharing of ideas with others help learners refine and expand their understanding.
- Contextual Learning: Learning is more effective when it’s situated in meaningful contexts. Learners develop a deeper understanding when they engage with real-world problems and situations that are relevant to them.
- Problem-Solving: Constructivism encourages learners to solve complex, open-ended problems rather than focusing on rote memorization of facts. It emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and inquiry.
- Scaffolding: Teachers or more knowledgeable peers help learners by providing support that allows them to reach higher levels of understanding. This support is gradually removed as learners become more competent.
Key proponents of constructivism include:
- Jean Piaget: He proposed that children build their understanding through stages of cognitive development and through interactions with their environment.
- Lev Vygotsky: He emphasized the social aspect of learning and introduced the concept of the “Zone of Proximal Development” (ZPD), which describes the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance.
- Jerome Bruner: He advocated for discovery learning, where learners actively participate in their own learning process.
In summary, constructivism focuses on the idea that learners construct their own knowledge, and learning is an active, social, and contextual process that builds upon prior knowledge and personal experiences.