What is Social-Constructivism?
Social constructivism is an educational theory designed by Lev Vygotsky. Students construct their own knowledge through the social interaction with others. Students construct the knowledge through group interactions and activities; they become the central target in their learning.
Vygotsky believed that “children actively construct their own knowledge and that social interaction is the means of such construction, saying that children grow into the intellectual like of those around them” (Vygotsky, 1978, p.88)
How can technology enhance the application of these theories?
The classroom has a number of social attachments necessary for learning in Vygotsky’s theories. Using technology tools such as computers and interactive whiteboards in the classroom can enhance the social dynamics of Vygotsky’s theory. Teachers can create lessons that allow students to work in groups with task related interaction to allow higher order thinking.
Social- constructivism is an increasingly popular teaching and learning method. Theorist Vygotsky believes that creating an environment with social interaction such as group activities will benefit students perform at their best. After watching the YouTube clip above you understand how important a student centered classroom is, creating lessons that will benefit students to gain knowledge and understanding.
From experiences in the classroom, on practical immersion, the social-constructivism theory was put in to place. The teacher created lessons that promote social interaction with other class peers. The teacher split the class up in to four even groups and participated in a maths lesson. Each group was engaged and motivated in the activity. Students had clear instructions and were constructing their own knowledge and understanding of the task through interaction with others.
Here is a link to explain Social-Constructivism and the effects it has on the classroom
Reference List:
White, F., Hayes, B., & Livesey, D. (2010). Developmental psychology: From infancy to adulthood (2nd ed.). Frenchs Forest, NSW: Pearson Australia.
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