Raeven Fowler

November 5, 2023

Constructivism Meets the 21st Century

Think back to your grade school days. Were you excited whenever there were hands-on activities incorporated into the lesson? I know I always was! Hands-on learning has a strong correlation with the learning theory of Constructivism, i.e., a theory of learning that emphasizes the active role of every learner. Constructivism holds that learners are active participants in their learning, and that they construct their own understanding by actively engaging with their environment (Jonassen & Land, 2000). This means that learners are not passive when they receive information but should be active agents in their own learning. Through manipulating objects, collaborating with peers, or engaging in experiments, students absorb information, as well as construct their own mental frameworks and integrate their new knowledge with their existing knowledge.

First Introduction to Constructivism

Constructivism was introduced in the early 20th century by Jean Piaget. He challenged behaviorist theories of the time by asserting that individuals learn through interactions with the environment. Piaget stated that children actively construct knowledge through observation and experimentation, emphasizing that learning is an ongoing, dynamic process (Piaget, 1952). However, Piaget was not the sole pioneer in recognizing the importance of children's active engagement in learning through experimentation. Lev Vygotsky, a Soviet psychologist, introduced a similar theory that emphasized the role of social interactions in learning, including peer interactions and teacher guidance. Vygotsky's theory challenged the notion that learning was a solitary activity and underscored the significance of cultural and social influences (Vygotsky, 1978). Although Piaget and Vygotsky never collaborated directly, Constructivism is often discussed as a synthesis of their distinct yet complementary ideas, reflecting the ongoing dialogue and evolution of educational theory.

Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky

Constructivism Today

As we transition classrooms from in-person to virtual classroom settings, it's almost impossible to not question constructivism's influence in this type of learning setting. How will learners participate in hands-on activities if they are just staring at a screen all day? If this was a question you asked yourself, then I'm happy to tell you that there are an unlimited number of ways learners will become part of their learning experience by actively engaging in activities! This is made possible through today's innovative educational technology advancements. Technology such as virtual reality and augmented reality can simulate physical objects and provide learners with an immersive learning experience. Most of which you're probably already familiar with! Let's look at the three below:

1. Virtual Reality

VR technology can provide students with the opportunity to practice and experiment in a safe and controlled environment. As a result, they are able to explore a variety of topics without being constrained by physical limitations. The use of VR technology can also provide students with an interactive and immersive learning experience unlike what is possible with traditional teaching methods. For example, students can use VR to explore a virtual museum, visit a virtual library, or experience a virtual field trip.

2. Interactive Simulations

Simulations provide learners with the opportunity to explore an environment and make decisions, allowing them to learn through trial and error. They have the opportunity to explore an environment at their own pace, enabling them to learn in a way that is most conducive to their learning style. These are often more cost-effective and easier to create than virtual reality. For example, a chemistry lab simulation could allow users to experiment with different compounds, create reactions, and observe the results.

3. Gamification

Gamification is the use of game mechanics in non-game contexts to engage learners and motivate them to take action. Educational games can be used to teach topics such as math, science, and history in a fun and interactive way. They can also be used to foster collaboration and critical thinking. For instance, the game Minecraft is often used to teach coding and game design in classrooms.

Final Thoughts

As a foundational learning theory, Constructivism has consistently emphasized the active role of learners in shaping their understanding of the world. This theory is still relevant today in the context of virtual classrooms, as it has evolved from the early insights of Piaget and Vygotsky. In embracing immersive technologies such as virtual reality, interactive simulations, gamification, and personalized learning through adaptive technologies, we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture between theory and technology. Students can engage actively in their learning experience, construct knowledge, and gain customized learning experiences through the use of these innovative educational tools. As constructivist principles and cutting-edge technology are merged, the future of education promises to be an exciting and transformative landscape that empowers students to explore, experiment, and construct their own meaningful understanding

References

Jonassen, D. H., & Land, S. M. (2000). Theoretical Foundations of Learning Environments.

Piaget, J. (1952). The Origins of Intelligence in Children. International Universities Press.

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press.

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