Constructivism: Unlocking Active Learning in Instructional Technology Imagine learning as an immersive, interactive journey where you construct knowledge through hands-on experiences and social interactions. This is the core idea behind constructivism, a learning theory revolutionising instructional technology.
Key Principles of Constructivism in Instructional Technology:
1. Active Learning: Engage with simulations, virtual labs, and multimedia tools to manipulate variables and experiment with concepts (Jonassen et al., 1999).
2. Collaborative Learning: Co-construct knowledge with peers through wikis, discussion forums, and shared documents, echoing Vygotsky's social constructivism (Vygotsky, 1978).
3. Scaffolding: Receive personalised support and feedback from adaptive learning platforms (Reiser & Dempsey, 2017).
4. Real-World Context: Explore authentic tasks through augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), connecting learning to real-life situations (Brown, 2000).
5. Personalized Learning: Experience tailored instruction through adaptive learning systems (Ertmer & Newby, 2013).
By embracing constructivism, instructional technology fosters a student-centered environment where learners are motivated, engaged, and responsible for their learning journey.
Examples of constructivist approaches include:
- Project-based learning with digital tools like Trello
- Gamified platforms like Kahoot! for active participation and immediate feedback