Effective educators use both direct teaching and constructivist teaching in lesson planning. In direct teaching teachers share the same information with all students, students work alone, teachers lecture, and check facts. However, in constructivist teaching, students work together in groups, solve problems, complete projects, and check applications of knowledge.
In Hughes & Roblyer, we are informed of four ways teachers may use technology for direct teaching: addressing weaknesses of students, skill-building, learning when the teacher is not available to teach the subject, and use of videos to explain (Hughes & Roblyer, 2023).
However, technology utilized for social constructivist teaching may include solving problems with computer programs, knowledge building games, use of computer models, working together on projects with other students, or learning about social issues (Hughes & Roblyer, 2023).
Learning platforms which can be utilized for both teaching strategies are Phet, Edpuzzle, and Discovery Education. In each of these applications educators can search for activities based on standards. In addition, these programs help to engage students making learning more colorful and even fun.
Phet allows students to use simulations which helps students build knowledge using scenarios, safely, and with no equipment. This effective teaching strategy is model based learning transfer (Bishop, Boling, Elen, & Svihla, 2020). In one example students may vary masses to study Newton’s 2nd Law of Motion.
Teachers may utilize programs intended for individual use but ask students to work as partners. Frequently, students discuss the correct responses with each other. In some learning platforms, like BrainPop, the quiz setting may prompt students until the correct answer is provided.
In solving real world problems, except in cases where public safety is at risk, we research answers to solve problems, find solutions through reading and consult with experts. This can also be a strategy that students learn to incorporate into how to learn. Educators should also help students learn how to learn, including how to utilize technology to practice skill building, and acquiring new knowledge.
References
Bishop, M. J., Boling, E., Elen, J., & Svihla, V. (Eds.). (2020). Handbook of research on educational communications and technology (5th ed.). Routledge.
Dohn, N.B., Markauskaite, L., Hachmann, R. (2020). Enhancing Knowledge Transfer. In: Bishop, M.J., Boling, E., Elen, J., Svihla, V. (eds) Handbook of Research in Educational Communications and Technology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-36119-8_5
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