Are Your Students Sieves, Sponges, or Scientists?

When it comes to learning, I have been known to say, “My students are like little sponges! They soak up everything I tell them.” I have heard others say, “My students don’t seem to be able... See More

When it comes to learning, I have been known to say, “My students are like little sponges! They soak up everything I tell them.” I have heard others say, “My students don’t seem to be able to retain anything. They are like sieves – information goes in and comes out just as quickly.” The authors differentiate between knowledge that is transmitted and knowledge that is participatory. Also, the constructivist learning theory is discussed at some length. Mention is made of how the construction of new knowledge can be facilitated by a suitable social environment. There is an excellent chart that shows what teacher behaviors promote a constructivist approach as apposed to a purely transmitted approach to acquiring new knowledge. If you are still not convinced that the constructivist learning theory is a valid, best-practice model for teaching and learning, this article may persuade you.

Are Your Students Sieves, Sponges, or Scientists?

When it comes to learning, I have been known to say, “My students are like little sponges! They soak up everything I tell them.” I have heard others say, “My students don’t seem to be able... See More

When it comes to learning, I have been known to say, “My students are like little sponges! They soak up everything I tell them.” I have heard others say, “My students don’t seem to be able to retain anything. They are like sieves – information goes in and comes out just as quickly.” The authors differentiate between knowledge that is transmitted and knowledge that is participatory. Also, the constructivist learning theory is discussed at some length. Mention is made of how the construction of new knowledge can be facilitated by a suitable social environment. There is an excellent chart that shows what teacher behaviors promote a constructivist approach as apposed to a purely transmitted approach to acquiring new knowledge. If you are still not convinced that the constructivist learning theory is a valid, best-practice model for teaching and learning, this article may persuade you.