In terms of instructional design, what does the term 'constructivism' mean?

The term 'constructivism' in instructional design refers to a learning theory that emphasizes active participation by learners in the process of constructing their own knowledge through experiences. This approach posits that learners do not simply absorb information passively; instead, they engage with the material, interact with others, and reflect on their experiences, which collectively help them build new understandings.

Constructivist learning environments encourage collaboration, problem-solving, and hands-on activities that allow learners to explore and relate new information to their prior knowledge. As a result, the process is dynamic and individualized, enabling learners to take ownership of their learning journey and fostering deeper understanding and retention of information.

This philosophy stands in contrast to more traditional or standardized methods of teaching, which tend to focus on the delivery of fixed content and passive absorption by students. In those approaches, learners are often seen as recipients of knowledge rather than active participants in its construction. Therefore, the focus of constructivism on learner engagement and personal meaning-making makes it a distinctive and effective approach within instructional design.