Constructivism and Technology

Constructivism is the learning theory that knowledge comes when we tie a new concept to prior experiences i.e. what we already know is connected to new knowledge and allow us to expand our own thinking. “Constructivism is a philosophy of learning founded on the premise that, by reflecting on our experiences we construct our own understanding of the world we live in” (Ganatra, 2012). Sometimes, the new idea is added to the previous knowledge, while other times it adjusts the existing ideas which no longer operate in the current context.

In the classroom, problem-based learning and inquiry-based learning are some of exemplary activities through which constructivist teachers help students to formulate and test their ideas, draw conclusions and inferences as well as convey their knowledge in a collaborative learning environment (Abida & Muhammad, 2012). Constructivism transforms the student from receiving information passively to an actively participating in the learning process. Abida & Muhammad (2012) conducted a research to compare instructional Module based on constructivist approach with the traditional method in teacher Education at Science College township campus, University of Education, Lahore. The findings proved that constructivist group indicated a high level of satisfaction, and increased student participation. Students were more willing to volunteer answers and ask questions of the instructor in order to clarify material, and team discussions resulted in many new points being introduced. 

Base on constructivism theory, (Ganatra, 2012) indicate the in-depth meanings of learning in Constructivist classroom including constructive, active, reflective, collaborative, inquiry-based and evolving. In the age of information, constructivism and technology are working hand-in-hand together to produce a better students’ understanding or learning outcome. To understand the potential of technology implementation in enhancing the teaching-learning process, the impact of constructivism on classroom practices has been studied by many researchers (Black & McClintock, 1995). The first strength of technology is facilitating collaboration, one of the typical traits of constructivism (Ganatra, 2012). A relevant evidence for this point is the project in the course EducationalTechnology we are striving to construct a new, original didactical concept with the use of educational technologies. Apparently, collaboration is highly enhanced since each group member attempted to make valuable contributions to the fulfillment of the project. After gathering all the ideas for possible solutions, all members would give comments on other suggestions which can be considered as the constructive stage of learning process. Additionally, learning becomes truly active as the advancement of a world-wide network would allow learners to have access to information from around the world. This abundance of easily-accessible information stimulates learners to explore virtually any inquiries which are also an essential requirement of constructivism. Finally, instant messaging, blogs and countless technological tools are being used to create online learning environment in which students can communicate, discuss and improve their critical thinking. 

To have a more sophisticated picture of Constructivism, please watch the following video

So, how can educators make use of technology to enhance constructivism in the classroom? Here are some technological tools to create the content which teachers can use to design Constructivist Instructional settings to stimulate student’s motivation as well as to enhance their learning outcomes.

• Audio file: Audacity
• Video: iMovie, Windows Live Movie Maker, TeacherTube, Scholastic TeacherShare, MIT TechTV
• Screencasting: Jing, Camtasia, ScreenFlow, Screencast-O-Matic
• Slideshow: Yodio, Animoto, SlideShare, Microsoft Photo Story 3 for Windows

References

Abida, K., & Muhammad, A. (2012). Constructivist Vs Traditional: Effective Instructional Approach in Teacher Education.  Retrieved from http://www.ijhssnet.com/journals/Vol_2_No_5_March_2012/21.pdf

Ganatra, S. N. (2012). Enhancing constructivism through technology. Retrieved from https://sites.google.com/site/journaloftechnologyforelt/archive/april-2012/3-enhancing-constructivism-by-ganatra

 Black, J. B., & McClintock, R. O. (1995). An interpretation construction approach to constructivist design. Retrieved from http://www.ilt.columbia.edu/publications/papers/ICON_print.html