Constructivist Learning Theory and Creating Effective Learning Environments

Digital Games are becoming a new form of interactive content and game playing provides an interactive and collaborative platform for learning purposes. Collaborative learning allows participants to produce new ideas as well as to exchange information, simplify problems, and resolve the tasks. Context based collaborative learning method is based on constructivist learning theory and guides the design of the effective learning environments. The constructivist design required for successful Game-Based Learning is discussed in this chapter and the model of recursive learning is discussed suggesting how Game-Based Learning (GBL) and how to maximize its affect. This chapter defines “Gameplay” and tables the perceptions of both players and teachers in the area of abilities learnt from playing digital games. Resources for implementing GBL are highlighted and the need for these is discussed. We conclude this chapter with design guidelines that will ensure effective learning outcomes are attained and suggest why these steps are necessary.

Download Full-text

What is an Authentic Learning Environment?

Online and Distance Learning ◽

10.4018/978-1-59904-935-9.ch008 ◽

2011 ◽

pp. 68-77 ◽

Cited By ~ 4

Author(s):

Anthony Herrington ◽

Jan Herrington

Keyword(s):

Higher Education ◽

Learning Environments ◽

Learning Theory ◽

Real World ◽

Authentic Learning ◽

Effective Learning ◽

Design And Implementation ◽

Learner Centered ◽

Effective Learning Environments ◽

Subject Areas

Recent research and learning theory provides a wealth of thought, ideas and strategies to inform the design and implementation of learner-centered, realistic and effective learning environments. This chapter proposes guidelines for designing authentic learning environments for higher education that can be applied across a range of disciplines and in a variety of modes. Characteristics of the approach are explored in depth, and the chapters of the book are introduced as examples of authentic learning environments in diverse subject areas and contexts. The chapter provides a practical framework for teachers wishing to break away from traditional, teacher-centered approaches in higher education, and who are willing to create learning environments where students are motivated to learn in rich, relevant and real-world contexts.

Download Full-text

Using Reflective Online Journals to Create Constructivist, Student-Centered Learning Environments in Undergraduate Social Work Education

Journal of Baccalaureate Social Work ◽

10.18084/1084-7219.11.1.87 ◽

2005 ◽

Vol 11 (1) ◽

pp. 87-100 ◽

Cited By ~ 6

Author(s):

Pamela Stowers Johansen

Keyword(s):

Social Work ◽

Learning Environments ◽

Learning Theory ◽

Constructivist Learning ◽

Constructivist Learning Theory ◽

Student Centered ◽

Student Centered Learning ◽

Reflective Journal ◽

Reflective Journals ◽

Work Education

The purpose of this article is to introduce the use of online reflective journal assignments as a means to develop collaborative, constructivist learning environments in undergraduate social work education. Reflective journals have been used in many academic disciplines as a means to promote critical thinking, to provide feedback to instructors and students, and to integrate theory and practice. The use of technology and constructivist learning theory allows the potential for reflective journal assignments to become part of the development of a student-centered learning community. This article provides an overview of critical thinking concerns, the use of reflective journals, and constructivist learning theory, as well as an example of the specific journal assignment used in an undergraduate child welfare course.

Download Full-text

What is an Authentic Learning Environment?

Authentic Learning Environments in Higher Education ◽

10.4018/978-1-59140-594-8.ch001 ◽

2006 ◽

pp. 1-14 ◽

Cited By ~ 35

Author(s):

Anthony Herrington ◽

Jan Herrington

Keyword(s):

Higher Education ◽

Learning Environments ◽

Learning Theory ◽

Real World ◽

Authentic Learning ◽

Effective Learning ◽

Design And Implementation ◽

Learner Centered ◽

Effective Learning Environments ◽

Subject Areas

Recent research and learning theory provides a wealth of thought, ideas and strategies to inform the design and implementation of learner-centered, realistic and effective learning environments. This chapter proposes guidelines for designing authentic learning environments for higher education that can be applied across a range of disciplines and in a variety of modes. Characteristics of the approach are explored in depth, and the chapters of the book are introduced as examples of authentic learning environments in diverse subject areas and contexts. The chapter provides a practical framework for teachers wishing to break away from traditional, teacher-centered approaches in higher education, and who are willing to create learning environments where students are motivated to learn in rich, relevant and real-world contexts.

Download Full-text