Constructivism as a learning theory is a philosophy in education, which is meant to enhance logical and conceptual growth in students. This theory asserts that we gather knowledge and create meaning based upon the experiences we have. As such, Accommodation and Assimilation are important ideas described within the theory. Assimilation allows a student to combine their old experiences with their new experiences, while Accommodation reframes those experiences. The Constructive Learning Model includes 4 elements: Concrete experience, observation and reflection, forming abstract concepts and testing in new situations.

A similar learning theory within this concept is social constructivism. Social constructivism suggests that all cognitive functions originate and are explained with the context of our social interations. Its views on assimilation assert that learning is much more than acquiring new knowledge by learners, but also the way in with students integrate themselves into a school community. Finally, they believe Piaget massively overlooked the important social nature of language misunderstanding the collaborative nature of learning.

I use collaboration on a regular basis in my classroom. Discovery learning is incredibly popular in education to peak student interest and gain maximum student engagement. Discovery learning is an inquiry-based, constructivist learning theory that takes place in problem solving situations where the learner draws on his or her own past experience and existing knowledge to discover new information.

In my classroom DBL has very little teacher guidance with the exception of teacher explanation and a minimal amount of repetition. In order for DBL to be successful I make sure to place the emphasis upon building students reasoning skills and connecting those with theri personal experience. Very early on in the year we work on building an overall sense of classroom culture that allows us to work together, remain open minded and encourage eachother with positive reinforcement. This makes students more comfortable asking question, inquiring, exploring and collborating with peers in a positve and safe environment.