Constructivism is a theory based on the idea that students learn new information by building on existing knowledge. People form their own representations of the world and incorporate new information into their prior knowledge as they experience and reflect on it.

With the opportunity to exchange new ideas and get exposure to diverse perspectives, learning becomes more collaborative and engaging.

A key feature of constructivist activities is collaborative learning, where students engage in group work, peer discussions, and shared problem-solving to support each other's understanding.

Here’s what we will be covering in this article:

• What is Constructivism in education?
• 7 Principles of Constructivism
• What is the difference between a constructivist and a traditional classroom
• Applying Constructivism in the classroom
• 14 Examples of Constructivist Activities

Introduction to Constructivism

Constructivism is a powerful learning theory that places students at the centre of the educational experience, emphasizing their active participation in constructing their own knowledge and understanding. Rather than passively receiving information, students are encouraged to engage in experiential learning, drawing on their prior knowledge and existing knowledge to make sense of new concepts. In a constructivist setting, the learning process is dynamic and interactive, with students taking ownership of their own learning journey. This approach, grounded in constructivist learning theory, nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving skills, helping students achieve a a more in-depth understanding of subject matter. By building on what they already know, students are better equipped for future learning and real-world challenges, making constructivist learning a vital component of modern education.

What is Constructivism in education?

Constructivism as a theory can be successful in the teaching and educational process as students learn experientially rather than just from the textbook. Constructivist theory serves as the foundation for this approach, emphasizing that learners construct knowledge through experience and reflection. Students are encouraged to use their critical thinking, deductive reasoning, and analytical abilities to articulate their thoughts and come up with solutions.

Students gain knowledge through practical application and their own interpretation of the outcomes. In this process, children actively build their understanding of the world through hands-on exploration, interaction, and purposeful activities. There are numerous conversations and inquiry-based learning techniques applied to the process. Therefore, learning increasingly focuses on connecting ideas and applying concepts rather than simply ingesting information.

Constructivism in learning theory becomes more centred on the actual application of the principles for the instructors. In contrast to the traditional learning environment, constructivist teaching differs from teacher-centred approaches by shifting the teacher's role from information provider to facilitator, supporting active student engagement and collaboration. The instructors’ role evolves into facilitators guiding students on the concepts and encouraging them to ask deeper questions. Constructivist principles guide the design of a constructivist learning environment, and these practices are informed by foundational research and theories in educational psychology.

Types of Constructivism

Constructivism is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it encompasses several distinct types that shape how students learn and develop. Cognitive constructivism, rooted in the work of Jean Piaget, focuses on cognitive development and how learners actively construct knowledge through their interactions with the environment. This perspective highlights the importance of individual exploration and discovery in the learning process. Social constructivism, influenced by theorists like Lev Vygotsky, emphasizes the role of social interaction, language, and culture in shaping understanding, suggesting that knowledge is co-constructed through collaboration with others. Radical constructivism, introduced by Ernst von Glasersfeld, takes a more individualistic stance, proposing that all knowledge is personally constructed and that there is no absolute reality outside of one’s own experience. By understanding these different strands of constructivism: cognitive, social, and radical, educators can better support diverse learners and create more effective, inclusive learning environments.

7 Principles of Constructivism

Constructivism is a learning philosophy based on the idea that we create understanding of the world we live in by reflecting on our experiences. Constructivism is based on various guiding principles, which are as follows:

1. Knowledge is constructed

Knowledge construction occurs when students go beyond knowledge reproduction to generate new ideas. Students collect pieces of information and assemble them in their own special way to create something that is different and unique. Through this process, learners integrate fresh information with what they already know, resulting in the creation of new knowledge.

2. Learning is an active process

In order to actively participate in their own learning and growth, students need to interact with their environment. Through active participation and hands-on experiences, students can develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and empathy. Constructivism learning theory believes that each new skill we acquire improves our knowledge of other things in the future. Discovery learning is one approach that encourages students to explore and uncover concepts independently, fostering deeper understanding.

3. Learning is contextual

The constructivist paradigm of teaching and learning serves as the foundation for contextual learning^[1]. Learning takes place when instructors can deliver information in a manner that allows students to create meaning based on their own experiences. For example, mathematical learning is enhanced when students engage in contextual approaches that encourage them to reflect on and articulate their understanding, deepening comprehension and connecting mathematical concepts.

4. Motivation

A constructivist approach to motivation centres on the idea that each person has different inspirations. In order to activate students’ minds and encourage their enthusiasm for learning, educators must know how to engage and inspire them. Fostering student motivation and encouraging students to participate actively are essential for effective constructivist learning, as they help create a supportive classroom environment that promotes engagement, collaboration, and critical thinking.

5. Knowledge is personal

The core principle of the constructivism method is that learning should be tailored to the cognitive stage^[2] of the learner. Another way to look at cognitive constructivism is that an individual gains knowledge as a result of prior learning and experience. Supporting students learning requires personalized approaches, such as guided inquiry and scaffolding, to address individual needs and promote effective understanding.

6. Learning exists in the mind

Knowledge is a fluid mix of framed experience, values, contextual information and expert insights. To practice knowledge management, students process information mentally through the processes of comprehension, understanding, and learning. Mastering basic skills is essential as a foundation for more complex learning, ensuring students have the necessary competencies to build upon.

7. Learning and comprehension become progressively more organized

Constructivism in learning theory promotes experiencing self-organization and mental manipulation, and it encourages students to control their own cognitive processes. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, it has been seen that online learning tools help students comprehend the content better. Teachers can present students with organized and scaffolded learning experiences, supporting comprehension and engagement. The reason for this is that online learning requires 40-60% less time than traditional classroom learning^[3].

The Role of the Constructivist Teacher

In a constructivist learning environment, the teacher’s role shifts from being the primary source of information to becoming a facilitator of learning. Teachers encourage students to take an active role in their own knowledge construction by designing activities that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. Rather than simply providing correct answers, constructivist teachers pose thought-provoking questions, guide discussions, and create opportunities for students to explore and discover concepts on their own. This approach helps students develop essential communication skills and collaboration skills, preparing them for success in the real world. By supporting students as they navigate the learning process, constructivist educators foster an environment where students develop confidence, independence, and a deeper understanding of the material.

What is the difference between a traditional and a constructivist classroom

In the following table, we describe how traditional classrooms are different from constructivist classrooms with a focus on student learning styles and skill building.

Applying Constructivism in the classroom

Students largely work in groups, and instructors conduct debates with their class to help students construct knowledge. Group projects are a key strategy in constructivist classrooms, fostering collaboration and deeper understanding. The main focus in such classrooms is on student questions and interests while building on what they already know.

The theory of constructivism also believes that the instructor’s job is to encourage inventions rather than to impart pre-packaged knowledge. The application of constructivism in the classroom revolves around the 5 Es:

• Engage- Help in identifying the necessity for learning new concepts
• Explore- Learn more about the subject
• Explain- Build explanations and definitions
• Elaborate- Utilize prior knowledge and practice skills
• Evaluate- Evaluate how learning relates to the objectives

These stages require students to take an active role in their learning, promoting ownership and responsibility for their educational progress.

Problem-solving is the primary goal in a constructivist learning environment. Teachers engage students by presenting real-world problems that challenge students to think critically and apply their knowledge in practical situations. Students ask questions, conduct research on a subject, and use a range of resources to find solutions and answers using inquiry methods. As they continue to study the topic, students reconsider the conclusions they originally came to. Question exploration generates more inquiries as it helps students build a potential foundation for higher-order thinking and independent problem-solving.

The Role of Technology in Constructivist Classrooms

Technology has become an invaluable tool in constructivist classrooms, enhancing experiential learning and supporting the active construction of knowledge. Educational technology, such as interactive simulations, virtual labs, and online collaboration platforms, allows students to engage with real-world scenarios and access diverse perspectives beyond the traditional learning environments. These tools promote student-centred learning, enabling learners to work at their own pace and take greater ownership of their educational journey. By integrating technology, teachers can create a more dynamic, student-centred environment that encourages deeper understanding and active learning. Technology also facilitates collaboration among students, making it easier to share ideas, solve problems together, and build knowledge collectively in ways that mirror real-world experiences.

14 Examples of Constructivist Activities

Lesson plans for a range of curricular areas can be created and implemented in several different ways using constructivism. Below are a few examples of the application of Constructivist activities in the classroom:

1. ILPE method (Investigating learner’s previous experiences)

To test prior knowledge, the teacher guides students as they brainstorm solutions. New ideas based on each student's prior knowledge and experience allow both the instructor and the student to better allocate their time and energies.

2. Directed discussion

During directed discussions, instructors and students are aided by a series of questions to facilitate a good quality conversation. It helps students to process the information rather than simply receive it which helps them connect to a topic and improve their analytical skills.

3.  Deductive approach

The deductive approach can be explained using hypotheses that can be derived from the theory's propositions. To put it another way, the deductive approach is concerned with deducing conclusions from premises or propositions. It enables students to quantify concepts and generalize research findings to some extent.

4. Exploratory discussion

An exploratory discussion is a conversation between students which allows for various viewpoints to be talked about that gives them an unbiased and wholesome understanding of the topic. These discussions are mediated by the teacher who documents all ideas that are put forward.

5.  Inductive approach

When an instructor utilizes an inductive approach, they begin by gathering data on their topic of interest. After collecting a substantial amount of data, the student will get an overview of the data. At this point, the researcher is looking for patterns in the data and developing a theory to explain those patterns. The progress shifts from specific experiences to a more general set of propositions about those experiences.

6. Reciprocal teaching

Reciprocal teaching is a type of instructional activity where the students take on the role of the teacher in small groups or within pairs. In other words, students take up the role of both, the assessor and the assessee. It is a form of peer-assisted coaching that encourages students to instruct each other for better understanding and execution of the given task.

Here's how instructors are using Kritik in innovative ways to implement peer assessment.

7. Problem-based learning (PBL)

With problem-based learning (PBL), students learn about a subject by working in groups to find a solution to an open-ended problem. However, a common challenge in group work is ensuring that all voices are heard, as advanced students may sometimes dominate activities, which can lead to disengagement among less confident peers. Students coming together to pitch ideas and create business plans to solve an ongoing social problem is a good example of PBL in the classroom.

8. Art

Constructivist classrooms are collaborative and learner-centred where learning is promoted via real-world context. Moreover, learning through art fosters student creativity by creating sustained, process-oriented art projects that enhance learning throughout the curriculum. As a matter of fact, students who study art quadruple their chances^[4] to be recognized for academic achievement.

9. Cooperative learning

Smaller groups of students work together on a common task as part of the cooperative learning teaching technique. The focus shifts from teacher-centred to student-centred education as students are encouraged to identify the possible solution for the task at hand, rather than awaiting the teacher’s instructions. 

10. Observations

Constructivism in the classroom is not only based on tests but also on observation of the students. Learners generate their own questions and seek answers through research and direct observation, which refines their existing knowledge and helps them obtain new perspectives.

11. Using Cartoons

Students' reactions to cartoons vary depending on how they personally understand the content. Concept cartoons are extremely effective for topic visualization, active student participation, and idea justification, which helps them discover scientific truths in their research. For example, Concept cartoons are primarily used in science education as learning and teaching tools to understand scientific topics.

12. Brainstorming

Student engagement and brainstorming sessions help to open the doors to creative thinking. Brainstorming encourages active problem-solving and focusing on a topic for contributing to the free flow of ideas. Students can draw mind maps, debate amongst themselves to weed out ideas to arrive at possible solutions that could be tested out.

Learn how you can measure student engagement for large classes with peer evaluation via Kritik.

13. Field Trips

Field trips help visual and experiential learners learn better. Incorporating learning outside the classroom encourages students to apply what they have learnt. 

14. Design Thinking

By exploring unbiased and incorrect solutions, design thinking pushes students to use deductive reasoning as opposed to seeking out definitive answers. This enables students to engage in deep analysis and internalize ideas and concepts. Concept-mapping is an example of this type of teaching in which you prepare a model to show your students how you identify the main ideas presented in a reading.

Check out some more ways to get creative in an online classroom!

Assessing Learning Outcomes in Constructivist Classrooms

Assessment in constructivist classrooms moves beyond traditional methods that focus on memorization and recall. Instead, constructivist assessment strategies are designed to evaluate students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and ability to apply knowledge in meaningful ways. Teachers may use project-based assessments, peer review, and self-assessment to gain insights into students’ own learning processes and progress. These approaches encourage students to reflect on their learning, set goals for improvement, and develop a growth mindset. By focusing on authentic tasks and collaborative projects, constructivist assessments provide a more comprehensive picture of student achievement and help teachers tailor support to meet individual needs. This shift from traditional classrooms to constructivist classrooms ensures that assessment is an integral part of the learning process, supporting students as they develop the skills necessary for lifelong learning.

Kritik as a solution for your Constructivist classroom!

Peer learning is instrumental in shaping students’ critical thinking and reasoning skills that are essential for them to succeed in the workplace. By implementing a tech-based peer assessment tool for your courses, your students can benefit from the boost in engagement, identifying knowledge gaps, and brainstorming new perspectives for enhancing their learning capacities.

‍Schedule a demo with our team today to get tailored solutions for your students.