Constructivism: when “instruction becomes less a matter of transmittal of an objective and culturally sanctioned body of knowledge, and more a matter of helping individual learners learn to construct and interpret for themselves” (according to Applebee (1993) as quoted in Appleman (2000).
What an exciting endeavor the field of English Language Arts instruction is! It is our job as English educators to develop and encourage in our students the ability to construct and interpret their own meanings in regards to texts and issues. In ELA, we get to explore and experience new and old texts together with our students as we give them the language and lenses to interpret those texts in personal ways. Now, perhaps more than ever before, it is so important to teach our students to read with literary theories in mind (Feminist, Reader Response, Marxist, etc.) as we live in a culture that continually debates whether there is ever one right answer to any question. Can any two people read the same text and have the same reaction or interpretation? I venture to say no. Thus, I love Applebee’s definition of constructivism and hope to adapt my teaching to a type of instruction that helps “individual learners learn to construct and interpret for themselves.”
2 responses so far ↓
1 Ms. Scarbary // Sep 13, 2006 at 8:17 pm
I’m in complete agreement with you, Kelly. I love being an ELA teacher because it feels like our task IS to change the world, and teach our students that there are no wrong answers. We get to validate everyone’s perspective, while asking that everyone consider other perspectives. It’s an exciting field.
2 Vicki Davis // Sep 17, 2006 at 10:13 pm
This is a gorgeous blog and you are going to make a great teacher. I can tell that your enthusiasm will make you an excellent teacher. I teach computers and have the same passion. Teaching is truly the most exciting profession in the world. You can leave a legacy that will never go away as your enthusiasm is transmitted to a new generation of passionate leaders (and teachers.) Best wishes!