Q1: Explain in your own words the principal contributions of Piaget's cognitive constructivist theory as a theory of learning. Make a list of questions you still have.
Piaget’s constructivist theory offered a different perspective on the process of learning at a time period when psychology was heavily dominated by behaviorism theories. His theory posited that students are “active learners that construct their own knowledge”. This approach highlighted the process that occurs between the stimulus and response typically seen in behaviorist principles. Further, it considered the contribution of the stimulus itself on the interpretation of new information. Piaget’s theory posited that we construct our own meaning of new information, or that we interpret things in individual ways. Additionally, Piaget’s theory purports that we constantly seek cognitive equilibrium when we learn new information through the processes of assimilation and accommodation. Piaget also identified distinct stages of cognitive development that describe the types of mental processes individuals are capable of at certain points in their development. His theory was appreciated by many educators as it highlighted the idea of developmentally appropriate curriculum, the importance of allowing students the opportunity to actively engage in their own learning and to construct their own meaning from the material, as well as stressed the importance of student interest.
Q2: Make a connection between Piaget's stages of development and what James argued the teacher should know about cognitive development.
Piaget’s stages of cognitive development stresses the importance of understanding that students’ progress through certain stages before they are capable of completing different tasks. For example, it is important to make curricular content developmentally appropriate as they may have not reached a point in their cognitive development that allows for the completion of more complex tasks (e.g., hypothetical thinking, abstract concepts, etc.). Piaget’s stages of cognitive development are especially relevant in the realm of early education and policy makers in Kentucky (as well as other states) stress the importance of developmentally appropriate activities in preschool. I completed a practicum at an early childhood center, and found the type of content provided to students to be very minimal, at least not in the typical format we are used to. The students were not to complete anything that might resemble worksheets, and activities that did require writing were an option and not a requirement. The types of ‘paper-work’ that was provided allowed the student the opportunity to practice their name and then move on to coloring (a preferred activity). Further, embedded within the preschool classroom were many educational decorations and helpful clues: every item was labeled, there was a calendar with the day of the week highlighted, the weather for the day, and the month, etc. Every class began with a song about the days of the week, the weather, the months in the year as well as time to count how many students were there that day. These activities allowed the students to engage in developmentally appropriate activities for their current progress in their cognitive development.
Q3: What would authors Airasian and Walsh have to say about the learning environment in which Bart was placed? Is this an example of constructivism? What are your own thoughts about constructivism as a theory of learning so far?
Authors Airasian and Walsh would have agreed with the learning environment that Bart was placed in, as the teacher allowed the students opportunities to pursue their own interests, guided their students through the learning process, allowed students to think for themselves instead of simply providing the correct answers, and was involved in the students learning process by providing feedback and guidance. These were many of the components of the constructivist theory of learning that the authors highlighted. The new school Bart was placed in appeared to apply some constructivist principles, including those that I highlighted previously.
I have really enjoyed learning about the constructivist theory, as I believe it is important to understand that learning is influenced by the learner and how they interpret information and content. I particularly liked the ideas of the social-constructivist theory of learning because it illustrates the influence of our culture, society, and values on how we develop an understanding of new information. Plus, watching the Simpsons for class is always enjoyable :)
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