(1915 – 2016)
Understanding Bruner and Cognitive Constructivism
Cognitive constructivism is a theory of learning that places emphasis on the ways in which learners construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflecting on those experiences. One of the key figures associated with this idea is Jerome Bruner, an influential psychologist and educational theorist. Let’s break down these concepts to help you understand them better.
What is Cognitive Constructivism?
Cognitive constructivism is based on the idea that learners are not just passive recipients of information. Instead, they actively build their own understanding. This means that every time you learn something new, you fit it into what you already know, influencing how you make sense of information.
Analogy: Building a House
Think of learning as building a house. Each piece of knowledge is like a brick that you add to the structure. If you don’t have a strong foundation (prior knowledge), it will be difficult to add more bricks (new information). So, when learning something new, you dig into what you already know to help in understanding the new concept. Just like a house needs a sturdy base, your learning thrives on connecting new ideas with what you already understand.
Who is Jerome Bruner?
Jerome Bruner was a key proponent of cognitive constructivism and believed that learning is a process of discovery rather than a mere transmission of facts. He suggested that learners should be encouraged to explore, ask questions, and find things out for themselves, which creates deeper understanding.
Key Principles of Bruner’s Theory
- Active Learning: Bruner believed that learners should be actively involved in their learning process. This means engaging with the material, discussing it, and experiencing it.
- Spiral Curriculum: Bruner proposed the idea of a spiral curriculum, where complex ideas are revisited over time. This means that students learn about a topic at a basic level and then return to it in more depth as they advance in their studies.
- Discovery Learning: Bruner promoted the notion of discovery learning, where students learn best when they discover concepts through exploration and problem-solving rather than through direct instruction.
Examples of Cognitive Constructivism in the Classroom
To illustrate these principles in your studies:
- Group Projects: Working in groups on projects allows you to discuss ideas, challenge assumptions, and learn from each other. For example, if you examine a historical event, discussing it as a group will help you see different perspectives and build a more comprehensive understanding.
- Experiments in Science: Conducting experiments allows you to see theories in action. When you test a hypothesis, you engage with concepts actively, making the knowledge more meaningful.
- Problem-Based Learning: Engaging in real-world problems allows you to apply knowledge and think critically. For instance, using mathematics to solve a community issue, such as budgeting for a project, links mathematics with practical applications.
Hands-on Activities to Reinforce Understanding
- Interactive Workshops: Create a workshop where students can explore a specific concept, such as renewable energy. Use different stations with hands-on activities (like building a simple solar oven) to promote discovery learning.
- Peer Teaching: Have students prepare short lessons on different topics and teach their peers. This reinforces their understanding of the topic and allows them to engage actively with their learning.
- Mind Mapping: Encourage students to create mind maps for various topics. This helps them visually organise information and see the connections between concepts, reinforcing their understanding.
By integrating these strategies in your studies, you are not simply memorising facts but constructing your understanding in a way that is meaningful to you.
Conclusion
In summary, Jerome Bruner’s ideas about cognitive constructivism remind us that learning is an active, dynamic process where students build their understanding through experiences. By engaging in discussions, problem-solving, and hands-on activities, you can enrich your learning journey and create a solid foundation for future knowledge.
Magister 