The term constructing knowledge comes from von Glaserfield’s opinion that we gain knowledge through our experiences; our current knowledge is the result of our past experiences. As we have new experiences, we are constantly adding to or adapting our knowledge. Therefore, our knowledge is a “theory” because it can never be complete, since we are constantly having new experiences that change it.
One implication of constructivism for teaching mathematics is that the teacher needs to ask questions in order to assess her students’ understanding. According to constructivism, everyone learns in a different way because we all have had different past experiences, and therefore, we modify or add to our individual experiences. As a result, it is necessary for the teacher to accurately assess the students’ learning. The way for teachers to do this is to ask questions in order to assess their individual understanding. This can be done by asking certain students to justify their answers or by asking similar questions. We learn from constructivism that even if students have the right answer, they might not understand the concept accurately. Therefore, teacher involvement is necessary and one way this can be done is through questioning the students and their understanding of the concept.
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Becca this was great. The implication was described very clearly toward the end of the second paragraph. I also like how you hit the point that the reason we need to ask these questions is because even though the student may have the correct answer, that doesn't mean they understand. That reminded me of Erlwanger's paper. Nice job.
ReplyDeleteJust a thought, what if the student doesn't quite hear the questions how the teacher intended will the student filter those as well and not answer them as intended?
PS your topic sentences were perfect.
Haley Bly
I like how explained the theory of knowledge that is is always changing by our experience. it was clear and to the point.
ReplyDeletehowever, im not quite sure about asking questions. although it is a very effective way of learning, i think that sometimes if the teacher is the one always asking, what if the students don't understand the questions. anyway, just a thought. but thanks for your blog.
Knowledge is not only "constructed" because it comes from experience, but also because each experience we have is interpreted in light of our theories about how the world works and what is true. Thus, it is never possible to have an objective experience; each experience is colored by what we choose to notice and how we interpret what we notice. We don't passively receive these experiences, nor use them in an objective way to create theories or "knowledge."
ReplyDeleteI really liked what you had to say in your implication paragraph. It was very clear to me what you wanted to do and how it made a connection to constructivism. I also thought it was well put when you added how important it is for teachers to be apart of their students' lives. I thought your example was very clear and completely agree with what you had to say.
ReplyDeleteAsking questions is a great way to make sure students are learning. And as terrible as it sounds, the fear of being called on might be enough motivation for students to make sure that they understand material so they won't be embarrassed in the classroom. And if they don't understand material, hopefully it will motivate them to some and get additional help. Good post!
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