Constructivist Approach to Learning

Constructivist Approach

• Knowing is an active process; learners discover and transform information.
• Cognitive change occurs when prior conceptions are challenged by new information.
• Top-down instruction: Students start with complex problems, then work backward to fundamental skills.
• Peer interaction is important.
• Self-regulated learners understand effective approaches for learning.

Self-Regulated Learner

• Understands effective learning strategies.
• Breaks down complex problems into simpler steps.
• Tests alternative solutions.
• Reads for in-depth comprehension.
• Writes persuasively and informatively.

Top-Down Instruction

• Students begin with complex problems and then identify necessary fundamental skills.

Discovery Learning Approach Limitations

• Not suitable for topics requiring prior knowledge, such as complex mathematical proofs or historical timelines.

Classroom Management and Reinforcement

• Common reinforcer for misbehaviors: Attention.
• Routine misbehavior strategy: Implement positive reinforcement and establish clear classroom expectations.
• Nonverbal cues: Eye contact, proximity, light touch on the shoulder.
• Classroom rules: Rules should be few, clear, fair, and explicitly taught.
• Maximizing learning time: Keeping students busy with meaningful tasks and making content relevant.

Title 1

• Mandates additional support services for low-achieving students in low-income schools.

Technology Integration Challenges and Solutions

• Challenges: Equal access, cyberbullying, cell phone use, safety/security.
• Overcoming challenges: Address access issues, establish clear expectations regarding device use, and develop strategies for managing potential conflicts.

Differentiated Instruction

• Strategies for struggling students: Peer tutoring, cross-age tutoring, teacher tutoring, differentiated content or level.
• Strategies for advanced students: Peer tutoring, cross-age tutoring, differentiated content or level.

Compensatory Programs

• Federally funded programs aiming to address the challenges faced by students from low-income families.

Teacher Controllable Factors (QAIT)

• Quality of instruction.
• Appropriate instruction levels.
• Incentive.
• Time allocated for learning.

Challenges of Between-Class Ability Grouping

• Lack of role models.
• Low teacher expectations.
• Curriculum narrowed to facts instead of concepts.
• Limited use of varied teaching strategies.
• Stigmatization of students.
• Predominantly low socioeconomic students.

Advanced Organizers

• Activate prior knowledge and guide students to new material.
• Recall related information for integrating new learnings.

Semantic Memory

• Stores facts and generalized knowledge organized into schemata.
• Schemata are interconnected ideas shaping understanding and actions.

Components of Memory

• Sensory register.
• Short-term (working) memory.
• Long-term memory.

Memorization Strategies

• Flashcards.
• Songs.
• Initial letter strategies.

PQ4R Method

• Preview.
• Question.
• Read.
• Reflect.
• Recite.
• Review.

Primacy Effect

• Information presented at the beginning and end of a list or period is more memorable.

People-First Language

• Prioritizes the person over the disability (e.g., "person with autism" instead of "autistic person").

IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)

• Detailed plans for students with special needs outlining accommodations, goals, and services. (Specific details not provided).

Autism Characteristics

• Social interactions.
• Eye contact avoidance.
• Social cue misinterpretations.
• Unusual behaviours.

Most Common Learning Disability

• Dyslexia.

Classroom Accommodations

• Preferred seating.
• Calculator.
• Small-group instruction.
• Reading support.
• Headphones.

Response to Intervention (RTI)

• Tier 1: Whole-class strategies for all students.
• Tier 2: Additional support for students who need more help but not individualized attention.
• Tier 3: Intensive, individualized interventions for students requiring special education.

Explore the key principles of the constructivist approach, including the importance of active learning, peer interaction, and self-regulation. This quiz delves into top-down instruction and the discovery learning approach, highlighting both strategies and limitations in educational settings.