Project-Based Learning: A Constructivist Concept

Alexander (2006) describes constructivism as a theory of learning that suggests that "knowledge is created, or constructed, by individuals or groups and not simply acquired" (p. 68). Hatch (2005) says that teachers that implement constructivist principles "set up environments and activities that support children's development" (p. 8). One way to do that is to engage children in a project-based learning activity. This is a type of relevant, authentic learning activity, a very important aspect of constructivist teaching.
 
Ormrod (2011) defines project-based learning activities as "activities in which students acquire new knowledge and skills while working on a complex, multifaceted project that yields a concrete end product" (p. 231). Children will be spending a large amount of time working on these projects, so it is of great importance to incorporate it into all content areas.

Here is an example of a project-based activity that I could implement in my classroom. This is a webquest that asks children to research the possibility of designing a garden that would produce enough vegetables to use in their school cafeteria. The children locate a place for their garden, choose what to plant, and care for their gardens over the course of the project. This project incorporates math, science, writing, research and social skills. It is a very in-depth project in which the children will be engaged in a real-world activity and produce an end product.

I think that children would enjoy this activity because it gives them responsibility and choice. They would also be working in groups and learning from one another. One obstacle might be time, because this project would probably take a couple of months to complete. Another obstacle might be child interest. Because this activity would take place over a long period of time, the children may become bored with the topic.

References

Alexander, P. A. (2006). Psychology in learning and instruction. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Hatch, J. A. (2005). Teaching in the new kindergarten. Canada: Thomson Delmar Learning

Ormrod, J.E. (2011). Educational Psychology: Developing Learners. Boston, MA: Pearson.