ERIC Number: EJ1098441
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006
Pages: 21
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1938-9809
EISSN: N/A
The Project Approach: An Appreciation for the Constructivist Theory
Cook, Pamela R.
Forum on Public Policy Online, v2006 n1 Fall 2006
The purpose of this study was to explore my appreciation for the "constructivist theory" for which an epistemological stance is expressed as an educational ideology, or referred to as constructivism; essentially to construct one's own knowledge. Six energetic five-year-old boys from an urban public school, located within a mid-western state became the focus of this theory. The early learning programme implemented the "project approach" inspired by the world-renowned "Reggio Emilia" philosophy from Reggio Emilia, Italy. Also, several components from the public school corporation were implemented into the kindergarten curriculum framework including: guidelines for art, mathematics, music, physical education, reading, and science. Many projects began to surface from the curricula framework and philosophy. One particular classroom of six kindergarten boys was found to be interested in learning about race cars. It was at this point that a greater appreciation for the "constructivist theory" became an exploratory venture, as I was compelled to guide these children into an intense 6-week study of…"The Race Car Project"!
Descriptors: Constructivism (Learning), Epistemology, Ideology, Urban Schools, Public Schools, Reggio Emilia Approach, Early Childhood Education, Kindergarten, Males, Student Projects, Learning Activities, Teaching Methods, Community Involvement, Scaffolding (Teaching Technique), Young Children
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Indiana
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A