Constructivism and Constructionism

The difference between constructivism and constructionism is when students construct their own meaning of things (Laureate education, n.d.). Constructionism takes place through helping students produce constructions that can be shared with others (Laureate Education, n.d.). This process provides the students with the opportunity to explore and create in order to understand. Project-based learning, problem-based learning, and inquiry-based learning all three closely relate to the information processing approach while focusing on learning experiences where students can help solve a problem or address an issue.

They fit well with technology-rich learning environments where the focus is not on the hardware and software, but on the learning experience. In each case, technology is used to facilitate learning. It may be a tool to organize ideas (such as Inspiration), search for current information (such as an online news source), or present ideas (such as PowerPoint presentations). Dr. Orey describes this method as an easy tool for students to build or create something to demonstrate their knowledge (Laureate Education, n.d.).  According to Dr. Orey PowerPoints with images can help students build schema and can connect with real-world experiences, (Laureate Education, n.d.). Another tool teachers can utilize to make project-based, problem-based, or inquiry-based approaches more seamless is a WebQuest.  They are online inquiry-based tasks that allow students to study evidence about an issue or topic and make a decision based on the information they collect (Orey, 2001).

 

By using this constructionist-technology tool teachers can set expectations for a project using a rubric. When students are given the opportunity to choose a topic to research, create questions about their topic to guide their research, and present the information they are more engaged in their work. When technology integration is at its best, a child or a teacher doesn't stop to think that he or she is using a technology tool it is second nature. And students are often more actively engaged in projects when technology tools are a seamless part of the learning process.

Generating and testing a hypotheses can be done in every subject and works with the constructionism strategy through creating projects that utilize a topic that is meaningful. Generating and testing their predictions is a great learning tool. When a student generate and tests a hypotheses they are engaging in problem solving. This process will provide the students with a clearer understanding of the lesson.

References:

Laureate Education (Producer). (n.d.). Constructionist and constructivist learning theories [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Orey, M. (Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved fromhttp://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 (2^nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: ASCD.