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David E. Brown
This course is designed to help participants examine the implications of constructivism for learning and teaching in science, mathematics, and technology focused areas. Course readings, discussions, and assignments will examine constructivist views of learning, research on students' ideas and idea-based interactions, research on instructional approaches taking student ideas into account, and challenges in implementing constructivist perspectives in instruction.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/nmw475/constructivism
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What's inside
Syllabus
Course Orientation
You will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and our learning environment. The orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required for the course.
Read more
Syllabus
Course Orientation
You will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and our learning environment. The orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required for the course.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines constructivist views of learning, which is fundamental to understanding the nature of knowledge
Focuses on students' ideas, which are at the heart of the constructivist learning perspective
Provides examples of constructivist learning environments, which can help you see this perspective in practice
Recognizes the challenges in implementing constructivist learning environments, which will prepare you for implementing this perspective in your own practice
Taught by David E. Brown, who is recognized for his work in constructivist learning
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Reviews summary
Constructivist theory for stem teaching practice
According to learners, this course offers a profound shift in understanding constructivism for teaching in STEM fields. It provides deep insights and is valuable for teaching, with many finding it changed their thinking. The course has a deep theoretical focus, which some found required dedication due to extensive and academic readings. While many found practical examples, particularly for math and science, some felt it was very theory-heavy and had limited for technology education, indicating relevance varies by field. Specific modules on student ideas were highlighted as particularly useful. Overall, it's seen as a course that can transform teaching perspectives for educators seeking deeper pedagogical understanding.
Covers constructivist theory in depth, requires dedication.
"Expected more practical strategies. This course is very theory-heavy."
"Solid theoretical foundation."
"The readings were extensive and sometimes a bit dry..."
"A valuable theoretical dive into constructivism."
"The material was dense, and I found myself re-reading a lot."
Assignments encourage critical thinking and application.
"The assignments encouraged critical thinking and application."
"The assignments were thought-provoking."
Certain modules offer particularly valuable insights.
"I found the section on 'Student Ideas' particularly useful."
"The module on 'Helping Students Develop their Ideas' was gold."
"It gives you concrete ways to understand and address student misconceptions."
Provides deep insights and shifts perspective.
"As an educator, this course provided a profound shift in my understanding of learning."
"It fundamentally changed how I think about designing lessons and interacting with students."
"Transformed my teaching perspective."
"Highly recommended for educators committed to understanding student learning on a deeper level."
Stronger relevance for Math/Science than Technology.
"While the theory is interesting, I struggled to see direct applications for technology education, which is my primary field."
"It felt more geared towards math and science."
"The relevance to technology education was limited compared to math and science."
"While the examples leaned towards math/science, the principles are transferable."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Constructivism and Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education with these
activities:
Review Prior Knowledge on Learning Theories
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of learning theories and their implications for teaching practice, providing a solid foundation for exploring constructivism in depth.
Browse courses on
Learning Theories
Show steps
-
Review your notes or textbooks on learning theories.
-
Focus on theories that emphasize student-centered learning and knowledge construction.
-
Consider how these theories align with your own beliefs about learning.
Explore Online Resources on Constructivist Teaching
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of constructivism and its practical applications in teaching by exploring reputable online resources.
Show steps
-
Identify reputable websites and articles on constructivist teaching.
-
Review the resources, taking notes on key concepts and strategies.
-
Consider how you might incorporate these ideas into your own teaching practice.
Read 'Constructivism: Theory and Practice' by David Ausubel
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the core concepts of constructivism, its theoretical foundations, and its applications in teaching and learning.
Show steps
-
Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on key ideas and theories.
-
Reflect on the implications of constructivism for your own teaching practice.
-
Discuss the book's insights and ideas with colleagues or classmates.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Participate in Online Discussions
Show steps
Engage with classmates and share insights on constructivism, learning theories, and effective teaching practices.
Show steps
-
Read the assigned readings and prepare discussion points.
-
Actively participate in online discussions, sharing your perspectives and responding to others.
-
Reflect on the discussions and how they deepen your understanding of the course material.
Create a Constructivist Lesson Plan Template
Show steps
Develop a reusable resource to guide your future lesson planning and ensure alignment with constructivist principles.
Show steps
-
Identify the essential elements of a constructivist lesson.
-
Design a template that includes these elements and provides prompts for planning.
-
Share your template with colleagues or other educators.
Analyze Case Studies and Develop Lesson Plans
Show steps
Practice applying constructivist principles to real-world teaching scenarios and develop lesson plans that foster student-centered learning.
Show steps
-
Review a case study and identify the constructivist principles at play.
-
Develop a lesson plan that incorporates these principles, focusing on student engagement and knowledge construction.
-
Share your lesson plan with peers for feedback and refinement.
Design and Implement a Constructivist Lesson or Activity
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of constructivism to create a lesson or activity that promotes active learning and student engagement.
Show steps
-
Identify a topic or skill that aligns with constructivist principles.
-
Design a lesson or activity that incorporates hands-on experiences, group work, and opportunities for reflection.
-
Implement the lesson or activity with students and observe its impact on learning.
-
Reflect on the effectiveness of the lesson or activity and make adjustments as needed.
Lead a Study Group or Tutor Students in Constructivist Learning
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of constructivism and develop your teaching skills by sharing your knowledge with others.
Show steps
-
Offer to lead a study group or tutor students who are interested in constructivism.
-
Prepare materials and activities that align with constructivist principles.
-
Facilitate discussions and provide guidance to help learners construct their own understanding.
-
Reflect on your experiences and identify areas for improvement.
Participate in a Constructivist Teaching Competition
Show steps
Challenge yourself and showcase your constructivist teaching skills in a competitive setting.
Show steps
-
Research constructivist teaching competitions and identify one to participate in.
-
Develop a lesson or activity that demonstrates your understanding and application of constructivist principles.
-
Present your lesson or activity to a panel of judges and receive feedback.
-
Reflect on your performance and identify areas for growth.
Review Prior Knowledge on Learning Theories
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of learning theories and their implications for teaching practice, providing a solid foundation for exploring constructivism in depth.
Browse courses on
Learning Theories
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes or textbooks on learning theories.
- Focus on theories that emphasize student-centered learning and knowledge construction.
- Consider how these theories align with your own beliefs about learning.
Explore Online Resources on Constructivist Teaching
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of constructivism and its practical applications in teaching by exploring reputable online resources.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable websites and articles on constructivist teaching.
- Review the resources, taking notes on key concepts and strategies.
- Consider how you might incorporate these ideas into your own teaching practice.
Read 'Constructivism: Theory and Practice' by David Ausubel
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the core concepts of constructivism, its theoretical foundations, and its applications in teaching and learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on key ideas and theories.
- Reflect on the implications of constructivism for your own teaching practice.
- Discuss the book's insights and ideas with colleagues or classmates.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Participate in Online Discussions
Show steps
Engage with classmates and share insights on constructivism, learning theories, and effective teaching practices.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the assigned readings and prepare discussion points.
- Actively participate in online discussions, sharing your perspectives and responding to others.
- Reflect on the discussions and how they deepen your understanding of the course material.
Create a Constructivist Lesson Plan Template
Show steps
Develop a reusable resource to guide your future lesson planning and ensure alignment with constructivist principles.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the essential elements of a constructivist lesson.
- Design a template that includes these elements and provides prompts for planning.
- Share your template with colleagues or other educators.
Analyze Case Studies and Develop Lesson Plans
Show steps
Practice applying constructivist principles to real-world teaching scenarios and develop lesson plans that foster student-centered learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review a case study and identify the constructivist principles at play.
- Develop a lesson plan that incorporates these principles, focusing on student engagement and knowledge construction.
- Share your lesson plan with peers for feedback and refinement.
Design and Implement a Constructivist Lesson or Activity
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of constructivism to create a lesson or activity that promotes active learning and student engagement.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a topic or skill that aligns with constructivist principles.
- Design a lesson or activity that incorporates hands-on experiences, group work, and opportunities for reflection.
- Implement the lesson or activity with students and observe its impact on learning.
- Reflect on the effectiveness of the lesson or activity and make adjustments as needed.
Lead a Study Group or Tutor Students in Constructivist Learning
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of constructivism and develop your teaching skills by sharing your knowledge with others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Offer to lead a study group or tutor students who are interested in constructivism.
- Prepare materials and activities that align with constructivist principles.
- Facilitate discussions and provide guidance to help learners construct their own understanding.
- Reflect on your experiences and identify areas for improvement.
Participate in a Constructivist Teaching Competition
Show steps
Challenge yourself and showcase your constructivist teaching skills in a competitive setting.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research constructivist teaching competitions and identify one to participate in.
- Develop a lesson or activity that demonstrates your understanding and application of constructivist principles.
- Present your lesson or activity to a panel of judges and receive feedback.
- Reflect on your performance and identify areas for growth.
Career center
Learners who complete Constructivism and Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
In your role as a Science Teacher, you would shape young minds, help students develop critical thinking skills, and prepare them for success in higher education and beyond. This course complements your passion for teaching science by providing a deep dive into constructivism, which emphasizes student-centered learning and active engagement. By understanding how students construct meaning and develop their scientific understanding, you can tailor your lessons to meet their individual needs and help them build a strong foundation in science.
Math Teacher
Math Teacher
As a Math Teacher, you have the opportunity to make a difference in students' lives by fostering their mathematical abilities and problem-solving skills. This course aligns with your role by exploring constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of building on students' prior knowledge and encouraging active participation in the learning process. By understanding how students develop their mathematical understanding, you can create a dynamic and engaging classroom environment that supports their success.
Technology Education Teacher
Technology Education Teacher
As a Technology Education Teacher, you play a vital role in preparing students to thrive in a technology-driven world. This course complements your commitment to technology education by delving into constructivism, which recognizes the importance of hands-on learning and student-centered approaches. By gaining a deeper understanding of how students construct knowledge and develop their technological skills, you can effectively guide them in becoming proficient and responsible users of technology.
Science Curriculum Developer
Science Curriculum Developer
In your role as a Science Curriculum Developer, you are responsible for designing and developing science curricula that align with educational standards and promote effective learning. This course provides valuable insights into constructivism, which emphasizes student-centered learning and active engagement. By understanding the principles of constructivism, you can create curricula that facilitate meaningful learning experiences and cater to the diverse needs of students.
Math Curriculum Developer
Math Curriculum Developer
As a Math Curriculum Developer, you play a crucial role in shaping the mathematical education of students. This course aligns with your work by providing a deeper understanding of constructivism, which recognizes the importance of building on students' prior knowledge and fostering active participation. By incorporating constructivist principles into your curriculum designs, you can create engaging and effective learning materials that support students' mathematical development.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
As an Instructional Designer, you have the opportunity to create and develop educational materials and learning experiences. This course will provide you with a foundation in constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of learner-centered design and active engagement. By understanding how learners construct knowledge and develop their understanding, you can create effective and engaging learning materials that support the achievement of learning objectives.
Educational Researcher
Educational Researcher
In your role as an Educational Researcher, you conduct research to improve teaching and learning practices. This course aligns with your work by providing a deep understanding of constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of understanding how learners construct knowledge and develop their understanding. By incorporating constructivist principles into your research, you can design studies that provide valuable insights into effective teaching and learning practices.
Science Policy Advisor
Science Policy Advisor
As a Science Policy Advisor, you provide expert advice on science-related policies. This course complements your role by providing a deeper understanding of constructivism, which recognizes the importance of considering diverse perspectives and engaging stakeholders in decision-making. By understanding the principles of constructivism, you can contribute to the development of informed and inclusive science policies.
Technology Integration Specialist
Technology Integration Specialist
In your role as a Technology Integration Specialist, you help educators integrate technology into their teaching practices. This course provides valuable insights into constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of student-centered learning and active engagement. By understanding how students construct knowledge and develop their technological skills, you can effectively guide educators in using technology to enhance student learning experiences.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
As a Museum Educator, you play a vital role in creating engaging and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. This course provides a foundation in constructivism, which recognizes the importance of active learning and learner-centered approaches. By understanding how visitors construct knowledge and develop their understanding, you can design museum exhibits and programs that foster meaningful and lasting learning experiences.
Learning Scientist
Learning Scientist
In your role as a Learning Scientist, you conduct research to understand how people learn. This course complements your work by providing a deeper understanding of constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of prior knowledge, active engagement, and social interaction in the learning process. By incorporating constructivist principles into your research, you can contribute to the development of effective learning theories and practices.
Science Writer
Science Writer
As a Science Writer, you communicate complex scientific concepts to a broad audience. This course provides a foundation in constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of understanding the audience's prior knowledge and interests. By understanding how readers construct meaning and develop their understanding, you can create clear and engaging science writing that effectively conveys scientific information.
Educational Consultant
Educational Consultant
In your role as an Educational Consultant, you provide guidance and support to educational institutions and organizations. This course provides valuable insights into constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of learner-centered approaches and active engagement. By understanding how learners construct knowledge and develop their understanding, you can effectively advise educators and administrators on creating effective learning environments.
Curriculum Coordinator
Curriculum Coordinator
As a Curriculum Coordinator, you are responsible for developing and implementing curricula that align with educational standards and promote effective learning. This course provides a foundation in constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of building on students' prior knowledge and fostering active participation. By understanding how learners construct knowledge and develop their understanding, you can create and coordinate curricula that support student success.
Instructional Coach
Instructional Coach
In your role as an Instructional Coach, you support teachers in developing their teaching practices and improving student learning. This course provides valuable insights into constructivism, which emphasizes the importance of learner-centered approaches and active engagement. By understanding how students construct knowledge and develop their understanding, you can effectively guide teachers in creating effective learning environments and implementing constructivist teaching strategies.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nmw475/constructivism
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Constructivism and Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education.
Provides a comprehensive overview of constructivism in science education, including its theoretical foundations, research findings, and implications for teaching and learning science.
Save
Provides practical guidance on how to implement constructivist teaching approaches in science classrooms.
Provides practical guidance on using interactive notebooks to teach science. It offers hands-on strategies and activities that can be used to engage students and promote constructivist learning.
Provides a comprehensive overview of science learning in the secondary school, drawing on research and practice. It offers insights into how students learn science and how to create effective learning environments.
Save
Classic work on the development of higher psychological processes. It provides insights into the role of social interaction and culture in learning.
Save
Provides a framework for designing effective learning experiences. It offers a step-by-step process for developing curriculum and assessments.
Provides a practical guide to teaching science. It offers strategies and activities that can be used to engage students and promote learning.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nmw475/constructivism
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Rating
4.7
Effort
10 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Instructor
David E. Brown
Language
English
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