Constructivism and Constructionism

Constructivism and constructionism are two learning theories. Constructivism, or the V word, has to do with the schematics of learning. When we learn, our mind groups similar ideas together based on previous knowledge (Laureate Education Inc., 2011). Constructionism, or the N word, uses building or creating as a vehicle for meaningful learning (Laureate Education Inc., 2011).

There are many ways to use these learning theories in the classroom. Two ways are through generating and testing hypothesis, and creating project based lessons. When students generate hypothesis with careful reasoning it gives proof that students are critically thinking (Pitler, Hubbell, & Kuhn, 2012). Creating hypothesis takes previously learned knowledge and uses it to inductively reason. This is an example of constructivism. Students can test and chart their findings compared to the hypothesis and present it in a digital way; this is example of constructionism. There are so many ways to incorporate technology when generating and testing hypothesis. Excel spreadsheets, phone apps, and simulation software can be useful tools (Pitler el at., 2012). Project based learning is closely tied to problem based learning. When a real world problem is introduced to students they must use higher level thinking skills to solve this problem (Orey, 2001). These lessons are tied to large-scale projects that often culminate in a presentation of student findings. Project based learning is an example of constructionism. When solving a big-picture problem, there are many smaller problems that must be figured out. The student guides the learning activities. This quest of knowledge results in meaningful learning opportunities.  

Throughout the week, I thought of the proverb “Tell me and I'll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I'll understand”. I believe the proverb sums up the idea of constructionism.

References:

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Program seven: Constructionist and constructivist learning theories [Video webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Retrieved from http://laureate.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=5700267&CPURL=laureate.ecollege.com&Survey=1&47=2594577&ClientNodeID=984650&coursenav=0&bhcp=1

Orey, M. (Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Main_Page

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E. R., & Kuhn, M. (2012). Using technology with classroom instruction that works (2nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

Partnership for 21st Century Skills

 

photo via

 

This week I have been looking at the Partnership for 21stCentury Skills website (Partnership for 21st Century Skills). Technology is becoming increasingly interwoven into our daily lives, and this website serves as an excellent website resource. This website user friendly and bridges the world of education to the world of technology seamlessly. The site is inclusive of all subjects, not just the “core subjects”.

I agree with most of the theories presented on this website. However, I believe that it is somewhat unrealistic. The Partnership suggests that teachers participate in more professional development on 21 century skills. In Pennsylvania, professional development credit hours have been suspended- there are no funds for schools to host development speakers. Under this model, teachers are expected to incorporate the 21^st century skills into the curriculum. Budgets are being slashed year after year. How can teachers be expected to keep up with technology when the technology provided by the school is outdated? How can life/career skills be taught when vetch programs are being cut? If money was no object, this framework would  surely help boost the 21^st century skill. I would like to see some more real life scenarios on this site.

One area I found useful was the skills map for the arts (Partnership for 21st Century Skills). I am always looking for new ways to challenge my student’s critical thinking and citizenship. I will be putting this in my teacher’s toolkit!

Many of the 21^st century skills named on this site are similar to the skills learned within the art. I have see these skills highlighted when advocating arts in schools. I believe that these “soft skills” are needed to propel our country’s next generation. These skills focus on teaching students how to think, not what to think. Teachers will be responsible for fostering the thirst for knowledge as opposed to having students memorize facts and dates.

Have you ever see this site? What are your thoughts?

Resources

Partnership for 21st Century Skills. (n.d.). A report and mile guide for 21st century skills. Washington DC: Author. Retrieved from http://www.p21.org/