Merrill’s First Principles of Instruction (2002) is framed around problem/task-centered instruction with four distinct phases to solve or complete the problem or task. Students are given the opportunity to activate prior knowledge. Necessary skills are then demonstrated so that students can successfully apply and integrate new knowledge into their schema.

How does this model support the theory of Constructivism?

• student-centered
• encourages inquiry
• provides scaffolding
• learning must be authentic
• engages learners in the solving of real-life problems
• prior experiences need to be activated to motivate and connect with students
• new material needs to be demonstrated rather than simply told to students.
• students apply course content to a new situation in order to make the information their own
• students have time to practice, process and reflect to make meaningful connections
• feedback and support are provided throughout not only by the instructor, but also by other classmates or even subject matter experts.