Epistemology: Cognitive Constructivism: Constructivist Learning Environments

Constructivist Learning Environments

• Overview:  Associated with the constructivist movement, learning environments call to mind a number of images yet to be explored. In everyday language, our use of 'instruction' often rests on the classroom metaphor. Systems definitions of instruction emphasize inputs and outputs, interlocking mechanisms, and self-correcting feedback and maintenance.
  
  Systems views may concentrate on the "macro" level, which includes the surrounding culture, organization, and facilities. In contrast, systems analyses of instruction may focus on the individual learner as a system interacting with instruction or with a teacher. Students may use the programs in pursuit of multiple learning goals, and individual learners may take widely divergent paths through the material.
  
  Hybrid systems that incorporate elements of performance support and training share the focus on performance within an authentic environment. The result is instruction that depends more on context-sensitive decisions and resources. Teachers must remain vigilant to ensure that an environment includes proper support, guidance, and rich resources and tools.
  
  Rich learning environments could more easily be called "constructivist" learning environments, where as learner environments may be thought of as "traditional" learning environments. Students are typically engaged in multiple activities in pursuit of multiple learning goals, with the teacher serving the role of coach and facilitator. A traditional classroom would be a lean learning environment with relatively few tools for manipulating and observing content, making exploration and problem solving difficult.

More..........................  Metaphors for Instruction