Peters: Theoretical Foundations for Constructivist Teaching

Theoretical foundations for constructivist teaching is a theory that is made up of different ideas. For example it includes such areas like the cognitive constructivism which is Piagets work and the sociocultural constructivism associated with Vygotsky. Learning depends on action which is why learning goes hand in hand with sociocultural. When teaching a science lesson it is the teachers responsibility to provide the resources, get the students active in the lesson, and keep their focus. It is important to remember the students zone of proximal development so you ensure that you are not stepping on the students toes. The constructivist learning model focuses on the learner rather than the teacher. The constructivist theory is all about the student having hands on learning and being able to think deep on their own.

"The goal of instruction is to actively engage the students in solving problems within the zone of proximal development. The teacher's role is that of a facilitator or mediator" (Peters). As a teacher I want to be there for my students when they need help but I also want them to be able to try on their own. I think it is important for a teacher to learn when to step in and when to let the student do the thinking. If the teacher is always there, the student will become dependent and always ask for help without trying on their own. Through scaffolding the teacher is able to give just the right amount of help for the student to accomplish the task at hand. The teacher is the model and helper when appropriate.

Through the constructivsit teaching theory I hope to have a suceessful class. I want my students to be able to be indepentent but know that I am here to help them learn. I want them to have an active role in the learning process and be hands on as much as possible. I do not remember being as hands on in elementary school and middle school as I would have liked. School should not be boring and consist of the students sitting listening to the teacher. My class will constantly be moving and helping teach by being engaged.