Constructivism

Keywords

constructivism, active learning, social interaction

Abstract

Constructivism is a learning theory which holds that knowledge is best gained through a process of reflection and active construction in the mind (Mascolo & Fischer, 2005). Thus, knowledge is an intersubjective interpretation. The learner must consider the information being taught and - based on past experiences, personal views, and cultural background - construct an interpretation. Constructivism is split into two main camps: radical and social. The first form radical (or cognitive) constructivism proposes that the process of constructing knowledge is dependent on the individual's subjective interpretation of their active experience. The second form social constructivism affirms that human development is socially situated and that knowledge is constructed through interaction with others. This chapter discusses the history, practice, examples in education and limitations.

Original Publication Citation

"Brau, R. (2018). Constructivism. In R. Kimmons (Ed.), The Students' Guide to Learning Design and Research.. EdTech Books. https://edtechbooks.org/education_research/constructivismy"

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2018

Publisher

EdTech Books

Language

English

College

Marriott School of Business

Department

Marketing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Assistant Professor

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS