ERIC Number: EJ1097810
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0973-0559
EISSN: N/A
Improving Learning with Constructivist Technology Tools
Landis, Melodee
Journal of Educational Technology, v4 n4 p9-15 Jan-Mar 2008
This article traces the development of the constructivist theory of teaching and learning, overviews the research that links technology to constructivism and highlights some of the teaching and learning tools, systems and models that are successfully using technology to develop learners' thinking and understanding. Constructivist viewpoints represent a range of thinking on different dynamics, such as: (1) Teacher-directed instruction vs. student-empowered learning; (2) Standardization vs. customization; (3) Solitary vs. community-based learning; and (4) Simulation vs. authentic experience. There are now a variety of tools and systems available to assist with learning across these spectra. Recent research has shown that electronic performance support systems (EPSS) offer a great deal of potential for users to adapt or design the framework of their activities and their own materials to empower the learner; various multimedia combinations have shown a great deal of promise in supporting learners to create their own visual schema; simulations and virtual environments come closer to attaining the same results as real-world experiences and models that exist which will help us to organize these resources to attain optimal impact. The article closes with a review of available tools and implications for research.
Descriptors: Constructivism (Learning), Technology Uses in Education, Educational Technology, Teaching Methods, Classroom Techniques, Educational Strategies, Educational Improvement, Learning Strategies, Learning Theories
i-manager Publications. 3-343 Hill View, Town Railway Nagar, Nagercoil 629001, Tamil Nadu, India. Tel: +91-4652-276675; e-mail: info@imanagerpublications.com; Web site: http://www.imanagerpublications.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A