2. Main Menu
1. What is Constructivism?
2. Lev Vygotsky
3. How can this theory be Observed?
4. My classroom
3. What is
Constructivism?
Book Definition: A type of learning in which the learner
forms or constructs much of what he or she learns and
comprehends.
My Definition: A type of learning through a dynamic
interaction between the learner and the mentor.
4. Theorists Their beliefs
• Jean Piaget (1896-1980) • Jean Piaget:
– Influenced the Constructivism – Children do not need help to
movement. learn.
• Jerome Bruner (1915- ?) • Jerome Bruner:
– Proposed learning is an active – Constructivist learners are
process. participatory learners.
• Lev Vygotsky (1896-1934) • Lev Vygotsky:
– Developed what is known as – Learning is influence by social
social cognition development
• John Dewey (1859-1952) • John Dewey:
– Educational psychologist, – Learning should engage and
philosopher, and political expand experiences.
activist.
5. Lev Vygotsky
• The social pioneer of
sociocultural perspectives
• Main interest was in
cognitive competencies
• Believed children are not
always egocentric
• Viewed children as
apprentices in thinking
6. The Zone of Proximal
Development
Vygotsky’s View of Children’s Learning Abilities
• What can I do?
– What the learner already knows
– Where the learner is currently
• What can I do with help?
– Zone of Proximal Learning (ZPD)
– What the learner could
understand
• What I can’t do
– What the learner is not ready for
(even with help)
7. Observation
Understanding in ZPD Confusion
The student will be able to grasp If the information is far beyond
the new concepts and information their reach even with help they
beyond their current knowledge will not understand and may get
with help. really frustrated and confused.
8. What will Students do? What will the Teacher do?
• Cognitive and socially • The teacher must know
develop through interaction their student’s ZPD
• Receive help from mentors • The teacher must be willing
– Teacher, mom, dad, older to challenge their students
sibling etc.
intellectually.
• Learn the tools, skills, and
values of society and the • The teachers role is to
classroom Nurture the student.
9. My classroom
How does this theory fit in my classroom?
• This theory gives me a place
to start when assessing my
students
– More specifically Vygotsky’s
take on the theory.
• It can also help determine
gifted or behind students
• The theory fits perfectly
with teachable moments
10. My Theory
• Piaget and his cognitive
development scale was a
good basis
• Vygotsky further
developed the theory and
found a better balance
• I stand behind Vygotsky;
children can learn beyond
what they learn on their
own with mentorship.
