Week 11 Constructivist Learning

What are features of constructivist learning?
• Using the case of how electricity works to light a light-bulb, describe at least 5 aspects of constructivist learning/teaching that are demonstrated in Can we believe our eyes?

Since constructivist learning is students constructing their knowledge from their personal experience, the light bulb was a great example to demonstrate. In the video, there were five aspects of constructivist learning demonstrated using the light bulb. First, the light bulb was an hands on activity which allowed the students to be more focused on the topic rather than if they were learning about the light bulb through the book. Second, it gave students a way to think out of the box. It made the students to think on their own to come up with a final product rather than the teacher giving the students the step by step procedures of how to make the light come on. Third, the students were able to explore their different ideas. They got to do what they thought would work. Fourth, they were able to experience trial and error. They kept record of all the ways they tried to help them find a way that worked. They did not have to worry about getting something right the first time. It allowed the students to work without the pressure of failing and enjoy learning. Lastly, this way of constructivist learning allows the students to work with their peers to put their ideas together so they can make the final product. The students were able to compare their records with their classmates to come up with a possible conclusion on how the light bulb works and how they can get it to light.

Based on what you learned from all the videos, what socio-cognitive and constructivist ideas might you need to consider when planning your own lessons within your own domain of knowledge?

Knowing that I will be the role model in my classroom for my students, I hope to show many different ways of how fun can be added to learning. Many students become bored with learning because most teachers assign readings on the subject or pages of work for the student to do which just makes the students unmotivated to learn. When teaching, if I am able to bring hands on activities that deal with the curriculum, I know the students will become more motivated to learn. In a math class, I can bring in money to demonstrate something they will have to use in everyday life that will encourage them to do addition and subtraction. When learning how to use measuring, I could ask them what object they want to figure how tall it is. Also, I can make a day out of measuring and show the students how to measure ingredients of how to make a cake. This way they can be hands on while learning important details of everyday life.