Week 4 Blog Post- Nikisha Greer
The constructionist learning theory is a theory of learning that states that people learn best when they build an external artifact or something that they can share with others (Laureate Education, 2008). A constructionist learning strategy is that of project based learning. Within project based learning activities, the learners are placed within collaborative groups as they use their surroundings (technology, literary resources, etc.) and experiments to determine possible solutions for a real world application. Although learners can construct and present knowledge or meanings without producing external products, the processes of construction are more evident when learners produce through social interaction with others and share representations of their understanding and thoughts (Bhattacharya & Han, 2001). Furthermore, this instructional strategy is conducted in a student-centered environment, minimizing the role of the educator (facilitator). Students have a firsthand experience to explain things (Laureate Education, 2008).
Generating and testing hypothesis are instructional strategies that encourages higher order thinking skills to assist in determining solutions to a problem. Students eventually test their hypothesis to determine data to assist with their problems. When students generate and test hypotheses, they are engaging in complex mental processes, applying content knowledge like facts and vocabulary, and enhancing their overall understanding of the content (Hubbell, Kuhn, Malenoski, & Pitler, 2007).
Sources:
Han, S., and Bhattacharya, K. (2001). Constructionism, Learning by Design, and Project
Based Learning. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching,
and technology. Retrieved January 25, 2012, from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2008). Constructionist and constructivism. Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with
classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD
Hi Nikisha...
ReplyDeleteYour post is detailed yet concise. You examine and explain instructional strategies that correlate with constructionism. Project-based learning is something I began with my seniors a few years ago. Wanting to ease into it, I still haven't integrated it into the couple of junior classes I teach... mainly because my juniors are state tested while the seniors are not. One topic I have yet to read any practical research about is how to apply these wonderful project/problem based learning strategies when districts are still so focused on state mandated multiple choice test scores.
Great post, Nikisha! Most of the skills that we have discussed in this course are geared toward older students; however, as I have examined the strategies, I have realized that I, as a kindergarten teacher, am laying the ground work for a lot of these skills. My students require much more teacher guidance, but they are still beginning to acquire the skills that they need in order to be critical thinkers and problem solvers.
ReplyDeleteI really like your analysis and explanations in this post. They are thorough, concise, and very accurate.