Implement Constructivism in your Classroom
Constructivism is student-centered where students learn through projects, independent studies, interaction, problem-solving and group participation and where the role of the teacher remains that of a facilitator of the learning process. This accounts for the tendency of most teachers to adopt it and wholeheartedly support it. Constructivist theory maintains that learning is an active process that requires that students interact with and negotiate meaning. Active means ‘ongoing.’ It is not allowing them to sit down and receive a few moments of instruction and then left alone to find the answers for themselves. You stimulate their thinking. You motivate their desires to learn more and more. This could be done in tasks assigned to pairs or small groups.For example, we can give cards to pairs with problems and discuss them then share with other pairs and finally create a whole class discussion where knowledge is constructed rather than “lavished” by the teacher. If we can first help them learn of what their learning style is, we can take them to the next level. Use that learning style to begin collecting advanced learning. Education is a progressive learning process.If we can’t communicate verbally, written, and orally, we are in trouble. We must learn word origins and create a lexicon. The morphemes of a language considered as a group. I go back to peer learning. They must learn to share in groups. The process is organized and each person has a responsibility. They do not talk down to one another. They recognize the value and then add their addition feelings.Besides without knowledge – there is no understanding. Wisdom cannot be obtained without first acquiring knowledge. Also, we can provide students that engage the mind rather tha the body, like jigsaws,Learning is a social activity in that the students practice materials, reflect on engaging topics and ask questions. Here they need to be involved in sharing with one or more students. In the constructivist theory learning is contextual, so we should design activities that target structures, for example, in a meaningful context.Also words and phrases have to be put in context and the students need to understand that the meaning of a word changes depending on the context in which it occurs. Yes,it may take as long to learn as the student is ready for. Individual differences should be taken into account. Motivation is a key component in learning. Teachers need to motivate their students by giving them positive feedback and equal opportunities and making them feel that they are valued. Students learn faster especially if their needs are met in a comfortable and positive atmosphere where they can take risks and brave the fear of making mistakes. Finally we are entertainers, artists, and salesmen in the classroom. We have to see the need to learn. They must feel they have not accomplished important goals until they embrace the desire to learn.
By El. Mohamed
