Learning, Knowledge and Human Development MOOC’s Updates
Concept of Constructivism
Constructivism views learning as an active process where learners build new knowledge based on their experiences and prior understanding. It emphasizes that learners construct meaning rather than passively receive information. This approach highlights the importance of engaging learners in problem-solving and critical thinking.
One key concept is scaffolding, where support is given to learners to help them reach higher levels of understanding gradually. This support is gradually removed as learners become more independent.
For example, a teacher might guide a student through a math problem by asking guiding questions and offering hints until the student can solve similar problems on their own.
This concept is insightful because it recognizes that learning is personalized and builds on what learners already know. However, a limitation is that constructivism can sometimes focus too much on the individual mind and overlook the social and cultural influences on learning.


I like how you explained constructivism as an active way of learning where students build their own understanding. Your example of scaffolding makes it easy to picture how teachers can guide students step-by-step until they can work on their own. I also agree that you pointed out the limitation. It’s true that learning doesn’t happen in isolation but is also shaped by social and cultural factors which happens in real life.
I like how you explained constructivism as an active way of learning where students build their own understanding. Your example of scaffolding makes it easy to picture how teachers can guide students step-by-step until they can work on their own. I also agree that you pointed out the limitation. It’s true that learning doesn’t happen in isolation but is also shaped by social and cultural factors which happens in real life.