Krajcik: Constructivist Teaching

There are many different ways of teaching thought out by different theorist. For example, Constructivist teaching is a way of learning that deals more with showing and hands on interaction rather than lecturing information to the students. Constructivist teaching includes learners prior knowledge, asking questions and allowing them the time to think about it. Teaching a new lesson should not be rushed and should allow time for reflection. Another thing that constructivist teaching includes is drawing from different resources allowing students to see different information about one topic.

"Tell me, and I forget. Show me, and I remember. Involve me, and I understand" (Krajcik). This is how the ancient Chinese proverb captures the idea of constructivist teaching. To me it sounds simple and I could not agree more, but you still have those teachers that will stand up in front of the class and lecture. I think hands on learning is the best way of teaching and one of the ways I learn best. I think it is so important to change up the learning process whether that is hands on labs, reading from different texts, or having discussions so that the students do not get bored. The article mentions allowing students to go out and take action. For science this could be a great thing. I wish I had more memories of going out and doing something to help the environment based on what we were learning. Scaffolding is also something mentioned that goes well with showing and involving the student. You have to model what is right and be there for the student as they are learning.

Teaching by lecturing is not effective and I will not construct my class in that way. I want my students to be able to watch me as I model things but also get information by them being involved in the learning. I will allow time for them to think and gather their own conclusions before moving on. Going through school having those teachings that sit there and throw information at you is not effective. It goes in one ear and out the other. I want my students to be able to grasp the idea and know it not only for the test but for many years after the test. Constructivist teaching is something I will use in my classroom.