Constructivism........

Constructivism is not a very unique theory is teaching and learning context, but it is an approach created and suggested by many other famous theorists known for their contribution to learning theories like Piaget and Vygotsky.

In constructivism, it is believed learners prefer to construct their own knowledge themselves or with the help of others rather than transmitting the same from other medium of transferring the knowledge.

Underlying prepositions in this approach to teaching and learning are;

·         Learners construct understanding that makes sense to them

·         New learning depends on current understanding

·         Social interactions facilitates learning

·         The most meaningful learning occurs with in real world tasks

In classrooms, the following instruction methods may lead to constructivism.

·         Guided discovery

·         Inquiry

·         Classroom discussion

·         Cooperative learning

 Piaget’s cognitive constructivism of knowledge is a valuable contribution to this approach. Piaget believed and advocated that cognitive ability of students varies in their different developmental stages. These stages tell us that students posse highest ability of thinking in concrete operation stage (12 plus years)

Furthermore, Vygotsky idea of social perspective of constructing knowledge is very practical and useful. In Proximal Zone of Development, scaffolding plays a vital role in moving the learner forward with creation of knew knowledge. However, this opportunity is obtained through social interactions of the learners.

Examples of Constructivism (From My Own Experience)

·         I remember the time when I explained the topic “Advertising” to students of grade 9 and they were asked to visit shops in the islands, to refer media; TV & Newspapers and internet surfing to study types and characteristics of advertising. Students finally came up to class with expected answers.

·         On other occasion, I asked grade 11 students to write a report on taxation system of Maldives after distribution of Maldives Taxation Policy booklet Summary with published details of it.  Students were expected to cover the following areas;

-          Taxation types and system

-          Advantages to Maldives Government from taxation

-          Costs of taxation

At the end of the deadline date I was extremely happy to see reports which contains almost all required knowledge that should be learned in AS specification of Economics from Unit 1.