THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES OPEN CAMPUS

EDID 6501 – LEARNING THEORY AND INSTRUCTIONAL

THEORY
POWERPOINT PRESENTATION ON
CONSTRUCTIVE MODELS

GROUP MEMBERS:
TRACY CHARLES
MICHELLE MCKENZINE
ALLECION PETERS

COORDINATOR: DR DEANNE J. FORD

 Introduction
Constructivism is a learning theory that states knowledge is best gained through a process of

reflection and active construction in the mind (Mascolo & Fischer, 2005).

This presentation will be focused on:

Goal Based Learning

Problem Based Learning

Micro worlds
What is Goal Based Learning?
It is a constructivist learning theory.

 It is environment focused, on targeted performance

change.

learners are challenged to accomplish work-related

goals in a work-related context.

It uses a rich array of integrated support structures

and processes in a risk free setting that encourages
learning from exploration and mistakes Collins (1994)
 Examples of Goal Based Activities

 A six-month planning project (accomplished in real-time) with several

intensive workshops to help in the development of "real" task
outcomes. (This is an integrative learning project is and has aspects of
action learning.)

A multimedia, computer-based program where the learner learns about

the printing business while practicing consulting skills.

A two to four-day intensive workshop where learners create the

conceptual design for a goal-based learning program.
  Features of Goal Based Learning
Goal Based is both flexible and consistent

Flexible

Can be supported effectively by a mix of

people and technology.
Accommodates individual and team learning.
Can be developed over time and be effective
with exclusively multimedia support.

Consistent
Target (performance) outcomes drive development.
The structure of the GBL provides the learner all the support needed for the learner to learn
what she/he needs to learn, to engage in the activities that lead to learning, and to produce task
outcomes meeting or exceeding benchmarks.
 GOAL BASED LEARNING MODEL

Group

Goal Based
Seminar
Performance Learning Information
Development Sharing

Goal Based
learning at Knowledge
point of Exchange
need

Individual
Extracted from Montgomery, Joel R. (1996) Goal Based Learning Conceptual Design “Jump Start”
 Problem Based Learning

WHAT IS PROBLEM BASED LEARNING?

Problem based learning is student centered learning

strategy in which students collaboratively solve the

problems and this reflects on their experience. D. L Bound

(1985)
 GOALS OF PROBLEM BASED LEARNING

 Construct an extensive and flexible knowledge base.

 Foster increased retention of knowledge
 Develop effective problem-solving skills
 Develop self-direction, lifelong learning skills
 Become effective collaborators
 Strengthen student’s intrinsic motivation to learn
 Recognize, develop and maintain the personal characteristics and
attitude
 Characteristics of Problem Based Learning

Students work in small groups to increase knowledge by identifying

learning objectives, engaging in self-directed work and participating in
discussion.

It provides students with greater access to information, support,

resources, flexible approaches to learning, collaborative learning
activities and opportunities for self development so that results can be
obtained in higher levels of structural environment.
  Principles of Problem Based Learning

-The student is the focus of the educational program, the curriculum or the

curriculum contents.

-Co-operation with other and the importance of communication is emphasized.

-Practical, analytical and creative skills are developed.

-Self-directed learning ability is emphasized.

 Components of Problem Based
Learning

-Teacher acts as the facilitator

-Presentation of real world situation

-Group work and group discussion

-Student-directed solution of selected

problem
 MICRO WORLDS

What are Micro worlds?

- Constructivist theory

- Versatile framework to implement pedagogical

models using computers.

- Enable learners to explore ideas that cannot

normally be demonstrated in a normal classroom
setting.

- Create an environment that provide learners with

captivating activities
 History of Micro worlds
The formal conception of a micro world, can be traced as far back as a chapter by
Seymour Papert (1980a) in a seminal book edited by Robert Taylor entitled The
Computer in the School. Papert (1980a) first defined a micro world as a subset of
reality or a constructed reality whose structure matches that of a given cognitive
mechanism so as to provide an environment where the latter can operate effectively.
The concept leads to the project of inventing micro worlds so structured as to allow
a human learner to exercise particular powerful ideas or intellectual skills.
 Examples of Micro Worlds
LOGO is a Micro world. (Seymour Papert 2002) The aim of LOGO is to better

understand yourself through computers. Programs can range from simple to complex

and can individual or group based. Even though they vary, they follow four pillars

listed below:

Metaphors

Visualizations

Constructivist

Games
 Attributes of A Micro world

It is domain specific.

It provides a doorway to the domain for the user by offering a simple example of
the domain that is immediately understandable by the user.

It leads to activity that can be intrinsically motivating to the user—the user wants to
participate and persist at the task for some time

It leads to immersive activity best characterized by words such as play, inquiry, and
invention.

It is situated in a constructivist philosophy of learning.

 References

Burgess, H., Taylor, I (2001) ‘From University Teacher to Learning Coordinator: Faculty Roles in Problem-Based Learning'
Journal of Excellence in College Teaching, Special Issue on Problem-Based Learning

Collins, A. (1994, Oct-Nov). Goal-based scenarios and the problem of situated learning: A commentary on Andersen
Consulting's design of goal-based scenarios. Educational Technology (34) (9), pp. 30-32. (In the Special Section, Goal-Based
Scenarios: A New Approach to Professional Education, pp. 2-32.)

Duch,B., Gron,S., Allen,D. (eds) (2001) The Power of Problem Based Learning. Stylus Publishing

Montgomery, Joel R. (1996) Goal-Based Learning: Conceptual Design "Jump-Start" Workbook. Andersen Worldwide, S.C., St.
Charles, IL.

Papert, S. (1980a). Computer-based microworlds as incubators for powerful ideas. In R. Taylor (Ed.), The computer in the
school: Tutor, tool, tutee (pp. 203–210). New York: Teacher’s College Press.

Seymour Papert (1993) Mindstorms children, computers, and powerful ideas. Basic Boks New York.