Why Use Constructivism?

No, this site is not under construction, knolwedge is.  The value of constructivism “ . . . is essential to success in the real world, since [people] will always be exposed to a variety of experiences in which they will have to cooperate and navigate among the ideas of others” (Concept to Classroom, 2004, p. 2). 

Guiding students to orally explain their thinking in socially interactive environments raises awareness and gives more purpose to the learner.  Cey asserts, “ . . . all educators should strive towards building educational opportunities that are authentic and challenging, where students are actively involved and allowed [to] collaborate” (2001, p. 15).  

Social interaction is essential to constructivist learning and Web-based projects can be integrated into the exploration of any constructivist lesson plan.  “The Internet can be a powerful ally for fostering meaningful learning experiences” (El-Hindi, 1999, p. 1). 

With the digital awareness and intrigue expressed with twenty-first century learning, Internet and web-based projects contribute to an advanced reading experience. 

Educators of twenty-first century learners can blend face to face instruction with Web-based instruction to fully support the constructivist model of teaching and learning.  There are a multitude of Web-based opportunities for constructivism that could be implemented into an educational program.  

Technology can provide group sharing through the use of a blogs, wikis, websites or any other Web-based platform.  El-Hindi agrees, “Effective use of the Internet can help teachers move toward facilitating constructivist learning environments” (El-Hindi, 1999, p. 3).

Discussion

 Tell or explain a situation in your teaching or learning whereby a constructivist strategy was beneficial to the learning and understanding of the concept(s) being taught are learned.

• Constructivism Symposium Discussion Group.   

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