Constructivism is a learning theory that states that a person constructs their own meaning based on circumstances. Constructionism states that people learn better if they are able to build something that they can share with others (Laureate, 2008). A constructionist classroom has the teacher act as a leader to guide students through their learning (Orey, 2001). Giving meaningful projects in class is a great way to incorporate the constructionist learning theory.
I have used webquests in my classes before. They provide students with the chance to be creative while still following clear guidelines. There is a numerous amount of quests on the internet. The important thing to remember when using quests is to make sure each link works and be prepared just in case one has a problem on the day of the assignment. The particular webquest I used had students create their own vacation. They had to figure the total cost of the trip including gas, hotel, food, tickets, spending money, and any other expenses. Students had a chance to be creative and then they presented their vacations to the class. Here are some websites that contain webquests for use in the math classroom.
http://www.meridian.wednet.edu/~dshick/webquest.htm
http://its.guilford.k12.nc.us/webquests/math.html
This website has webquests in all subjects and grades:
http://chalk.richmond.edu/education/projects/
Using a spreadsheet is also a way to allow students to generate and test hypothesis (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). Making a hypothesis is another way students can create. They can then test their thoughts. In math, we use scatterplots to make predictions. Using a spreadsheet would allow students a chance to compare data and make predictions.
There are many different strategies a teacher can use in the classroom to allow students the chance to build or create. As long as the student is aware of what he/she is to learn in the lesson, the project has meaning. I cannot think of a better means to a project than using technology, a medium that so many students love.
References:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program seven. Constructionist and Constructivist Learning Theories [Motion picture]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology.
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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