How do you use constructivist learning in online courses?

1 What is constructivist learning?

Constructivist learning is a theory that views learning as a process of building new knowledge on the basis of existing knowledge and experience, which is heavily influenced by the work of cognitive psychologists such as Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky. This theory is not limited to a single method or technique, but instead provides a set of principles for the design and delivery of learning activities. These principles emphasize that learners should be active and self-directed, that learning should be contextualized and situated in authentic problems and situations, that it should be social and collaborative with interaction and dialogue with others, reflective and metacognitive with self-monitoring and self-regulation, as well as creative and generative with the creation of artifacts demonstrating understanding.

2 How do you use constructivist learning in online courses?

Constructivist learning can be applied to online courses by offering learners a variety of sources of information, authentic tasks, tools and platforms for collaboration, feedback and guidance for self-improvement, and choices for personalizing their learning paths. For example, you can provide learners with texts, videos, podcasts, simulations, and games to explore and analyze according to their interests and needs. You can also give them meaningful tasks or projects that require them to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. Furthermore, you can equip learners with discussion forums, wikis, blogs, video conferencing tools, rubrics, portfolios, peer reviews, and flexibility in choosing topics, resources, formats, and deadlines. Through these activities, learners can engage in constructivist learning while improving their skills and knowledge.

3 What are the benefits of constructivist learning in online courses?

Constructivist learning in online courses can offer several benefits to both learners and instructors, such as increased motivation and engagement, autonomy and responsibility, diversity and differentiation, retention and transfer, as well as instructor development and innovation. Learners are more likely to be interested and involved in learning activities that are relevant, meaningful, and challenging to them. They also take charge of their own learning process and outcomes, respect different perspectives and approaches to learning, remember and apply their knowledge and skills to new situations, and instructors can experiment with new ways of designing and facilitating online learning experiences.

4 What are the challenges of constructivist learning in online courses?

Constructivist learning in online courses can present some difficulties for both learners and instructors. This type of learning can require more time and effort, as well as skills and competencies, as individuals need to invest resources and energy into finding, evaluating, and creating information, as well as into collaborating and communicating with others. It can also cause confusion and frustration due to the ambiguity, complexity, and uncertainty of the learning process. Furthermore, it can lead to ethical and cultural issues that need to be acknowledged and respected. All in all, constructivist learning could be more demanding than other approaches.

5 How do you overcome the challenges of constructivist learning in online courses?

Constructivist learning in online courses can be made more effective and enjoyable by addressing some of the challenges that may arise. For example, you can provide learners with clear and consistent expectations and instructions, such as learning objectives, assessment criteria, and deadlines, to help them understand and manage their learning process and outcomes. To overcome difficulties and gaps in knowledge and skills, scaffolding and support should be given to learners in the form of examples, models, and hints. Additionally, feedback and recognition should be provided to learners to monitor and improve their performance and motivation. Giving learners opportunities and incentives like surveys, polls, and quizzes can help them express their opinions and preferences, as well as influence their learning environment. Furthermore, instructors should be given training and resources such as workshops, manuals, and mentors to learn constructivist learning principles and practices.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?