Constructivism…construsctionism…….at first glance, you would think they were the same, or at least I did. As I skimmed my resources, I did not even notice the difference until I watched Dr. Orey’s video (Laureate Education, n.d.). It is essential to understand the difference between the “-iv” word and the “-ion” word. The “-iv” word is constructivism, a theory of knowledge stating that each individual actively constructs their own meaning or interpretation. The “-ion” word is constructionism, a theory of learning that states people learn best when they build or construct something pertaining to the content (Laureate Education Inc., n.d.). My “friend” Teacher Tony only shares about constructivism, which I still found very helpful in aiding my understanding. When I think about constructionism, I immediately think about the famous Confucius quote: What better way to “do” something than conducting an experiment. As I explored this week’s resources about generating and testing hypotheses, it was very evident to me how this strategy relates to both constructivism and constructionism. Coming from a science classroom, I am very familiar with the process of generating and testing hypotheses. I enjoyed reading and learning how these practices can be incorporated into other subject areas and also paired with technology. I believe that anytime we can allow students to explore and perform inquiry based research, we are allowing them to deepen their understanding. As conveyed in our text, when students practice this, they are engaging in complex mental processes, applying content knowledge, and enhancing their overall understanding of the content (Pitler, Hubbell, & Kuhn, 2012). I do believe that we can use technology to our advantage when putting this strategy into practice. Even though students are not actually building or constructing, the idea of a virtual simulation is a way to incorporate this strategy if there are constraints. This would probably be considered more constructivist rather than constructionist. Some resources I enjoy using in my classroom for virtual simulation are: http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/lab/experiments/ and http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/scienceclips/index_flash.shtml I have to say that I have never considered using Angry Birds for applying the strategy of generating and testing hypotheses, however, I now plan to download it on our class iPads and use it in futures years as I introduce these concepts at the beginning of our science year. Having better knowledge of all the theories has definitely made me more aware of the experiences I offer my students and strategies for deepening their understanding. All of the resources have also been eye opening concerning resources for incorporating technology within these theories and strategies. Jessica Burnette 3rd grade - Math / Science Woodruff, SC Laureate Education (Producer). (n.d.). Constructionist and constructivist learning theories [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E.R., & Kuhn, M. (2012). Using technology with classroom instruction that works (2nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: ASCD
6 Comments
Tameka Crook
3/25/2015 12:30:18 pm
Experiment!!
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3/28/2015 10:12:55 pm
Tameka,
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Amanda Walters
3/29/2015 07:49:56 am
Jessica,
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Jessica Burnette
3/29/2015 11:04:17 am
Thanks for commenting, Amanda. I'll be sure to post something when I do that lesson!
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Erin Eickman
3/29/2015 08:34:04 am
Jessica,
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Jessica Burnette
3/29/2015 11:05:17 am
Thanks for commenting, Erin. This course has definitely been a refresher for me with all the theories!
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My dream is to create a 21st Century classroom that encourages collaboration, integrates technology, and promotes thinking deeply.
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