This paper argues that the shift from behaviorist learning theories to constructivist and social constructivist theories provides an opportunity to develop a hybrid model of mathematics instruction for students with learning disabilities. The proposed model embeds important skill learning in meaningful contexts. Evaluation data on such embedded…

Demonstrates how a constructivist approach to teacher education helps inexperienced teachers understand learning and teaching of aspect, a core grammatical concept. By consciously experiencing the process of narration, apprentice teachers construct deeper awareness of form/meaning aspectual correlations of the target language. More generally,…

Constructivist theory argues that students construct knowledge for themselves and that each knows the world in a different way. The problem for education is how students can construct an "objectified" knowledge. Outlines an integrative framework for the description of information and problem-solving procedures and a problem-solving…

Argues that science teaching should place more emphasis on linguistic explorations which provide an opportunity for students to develop proto-concepts that enable the development of scientific thinking. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Compares radical and social constructivism, noting that in radical constructivism the role of the teacher in inducting the learner into existing discourse is inadequately explained, while social constructivist theory offers more to the practitioner. Argues that the former's overemphasis on personal construct theory and almost dismissive attitude…

Discussion of intelligent agents and their use in computer learning environments focuses on cognitive considerations. Presents four dimension of control that should be considered in designing agent-based learning environments: learner control, from constructivist to instructivist; feedback; relationship of learner to agent; and learner confidence…

Cites empirical evidence contrary to Goodman's assertion that preschool children are egocentric and incapable of moral reflection. Offers evidence that heteronomous regulation of children leads to numerous undesirable outcomes and that encouragement of children's autonomy leads to positive outcomes. Points out numerous misconceptions of…

Explains how misconceptions act as barriers to learning and must be addressed by teachers in the delivery of instruction. Points out that if misconceptions are not overcome, no new learning will result from a student's time in the classroom. Reports the results of an action research project that concluded that the majority of students make no…

Suggests that it is important to introduce liberal arts students to the essence of engineering. Describes Robotic Design Studio, a course in which students learn how to design, assemble, and program robots made out of LEGO parts, sensors, motors, and small embedded computers. Represents an alternative vision of how robot design can be used to…

Presents three basic epistemological positions (empiricism, nativism, and constructivism) and argues that Maria Montessori's educational practice reflected all three positions. Describes how the constructivist position is reflected in the High/Scope program, and compares and contrasts this position with that of Montessori. Asserts that although…

Discusses the elements of constructivist instruction/teaching. Constructivism is seen as ultimate decentralization, with student and teacher able to make decisions regarding what and how they learn. The few studies on leadership and constructivism note the power of constructivist leadership in decentralizing schools and even classes or teams, with…

Describes a reform effort for the undergraduate curriculum utilizing action-based research teams that developed, implemented, and assessed constructivist approaches to teaching undergraduate science content. Results indicate that the collaborative action-based research process was effective in contributing to the reform of undergraduate teaching.…

Case studies were constructed for four prospective teachers who were purposely selected as a result of their scores on the Classroom Learning Environment Survey (CLES) to gain a better understanding of emerging constructivist beliefs and classroom practices. Finds two kinds of beliefs, central beliefs defined as those dictating subsequent teaching…

Classifies ethnomathematics in relation to the teaching of formal, academic mathematics. Investigates whether ethnomathematics should replace academic mathematics, be a supplement to the mathematics curriculum, be used as a springboard for academic mathematics, or be taken into consideration when preparing learning situations. Suggests that only…

Describes a study investigating the effects of short-term interventions on preservice elementary teachers' understanding of the topic of ozone depletion and whether complex issues can be dealt with successfully through short-term intervention. Reports that preservice teachers' understanding improved through a short-term intervention using a mix of…