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You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him find it within himself.
-
Galileo
There are a number of benefits derived from the Constructivist theory that
enable a positive learning environment. Implementation of the theory will
encourage students to learn more through active participation, rather than
passive listening. Students are given ownership of their own learning creating
the opportunity to think, problem solve and reflect on their knowledge,
concentrating on understanding rather than memorising (What are the Benefits
of Constructivism?, 2004). Development of social and communication skills is
also evident encouraging cooperation and exchange of ideas between peers.
However, teachers and schools must be aware of implications which may arise.
Constructivism in the classroom may favour those students who are more
privileged. Students from less fortunate backgrounds may lack the tools or
technological resources and knowledge to flourish in a constructivist classroom.
Some of the quieter students may also struggle to have their voice heard when
participating in group or collaborative activities, being forced to conform to the
viewpoints of more dominating students (What Are Some Critical Perspectives?,
2004). In order to mitigate these implications we have opted for activities to be
run in smaller groups of two to three students, providing each student with an
iPad and a computer per group. Allocating a device per student and
implementing small sized groups will allow the opportunity for all students to be
actively involved and comfortable within the classroom environment. We believe
it is important that all students feel involved, valued and for most part, major
contributors to their own knowledge as they embark on their learning journey.
References
Brown, Dr Tom H. (2005). Beyond Constructivism: Exploring Future Learning
Paradigms. Retrieved from:
http://www.bucks.edu/old_docs/academics/facultywebresources/Beyond_construc
tivism.pdf
Ozer, Ozgur. 2004. Constructivism in Piaget and Vygotsky. The Fountain.
Retrieved from:
http://www.fountainmagazine.com/Issue/detail/CONSTRUCTIVISM-in-Piaget-andVygotsky
Sharma, R. K. (2014). CONSTRUCTIVISM-AN APPROACH TO ENHANCE
PARTICIPATORY TEACHING LEARNING. GYANODAYA: The Journal Of Progressive
Education, 7(2), 12-17. doi:10.5958/2229-4422.2014.00003.6
What are Some Critical Perspectives?. (2004). Concept to Classroom. Retrieved
from:
http://www.thirteen.org/edonline/concept2class/constructivism/index_sub5.html
What are the Benefits of Constructivism? (2004). Concept to Classroom.
Retrieved from:
http://www.thirteen.org/edonline/concept2class/constructivism/index_sub6.html