MIH505 Ch 10 Constructivism

Vygotsky noted that successful problem solvers talk

themselves through difficult problems.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The Russian Psychologist believed Private Speech serves a helpful self-guiding function in a situation where a more cognitive effort is needed to reach a solution.

Key elements of Piaget's and Vygotsky's conceptions of

cognitive change involve transmission of knowledge in

which the learner's role is passive.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Vygosky:

+  knowledge is constructed because it is directed by both external/internal factors.

+  Knowledge grows through interactions of cognitive and

environmental/social factors

A central assumption of constructivist approaches is that

learning is a process of discovery.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Central Idea of constructivist approaches: Learners are active in constructing their own learning.

Which one of the following activities would NOT be consistent

with a constructivist environment?

• A. Students are given frequent opportunities to engage in

  complex, meaningful, problem-based activities.

• B. Students work collaboratively and are given support to

  engage in task-oriented dialogue with one another.

• C. Teachers elicit students’ ideas and experiences in relationship

  to key topics, then fashion learning situations that assist

  students in elaborating on or restructuring their current

  knowledge.

• D. Teachers employ limited assessment strategies and give

  feedback on products rather than processes.

Answer explanation

Teachers should employ a variety of assessment strategies and give

feedback on processes rather than products.

Group activities must be well planned. Students need to be

prepared to work in groups, and teachers have to be explicit in

stating their expectations. Which one of the following strategies

is NOT an element that defines true cooperative learning?

• A. Positive interdependence and individual accountability

• B. Group processing

• C. Competition

• D. Collaborative and social skills

Answer explanation

+  Positive effects of truly cooperative groups

+  Tolerance for differences, awareness of others’ perspectives,

higher-level reasoning, problem solving, self-confidence, empathy