SRJIS/BIMONTHLY/ SHUBNEET SIDHU (2267-2274)
CONSTRUCTIVISM IN BIOLOGY INSTRUCTION Shubneet Sidhu Research scholar, department of community education and disability studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh Abstract There are many learning theories which we study under Educational Psychology. Constructivism is one of them which focus on developing the learners ‘knowledge by constructing the world around them through experience, observation, documentation, analysis and reflection. In the classrooms of today, learners are no longer passive recipients nor are the teachers ‘givers of information, knowledge and wisdom’. According to constructivist perspective, the teaching or the learning of biology is not the search for the ultimate truth. So, the process of learning biology involves active construction of knowledge by children, and then the classroom environment must call for more synergies rather than mere individual participation. The teachers need to develop the ability to work with children creatively to generate new ideas, new theories, new products and new knowledge. Keywords: constructivism, meaning, biology instruction, implications, compare Introduction: In recent past, three important trends in Science Education have been identified. First, research has indicated that all students are capable of learning science and therefore, must be given the opportunities for optional science learning. Science is for all. An equitable science curriculum is one in which both the content and pedagogy are inclusive to all students. The term inclusive is used to describe curriculum that by its nature and the ways it is offered, includes all students. Contemporary science education is for equity, equality and inclusiveness. Second, scientists use scientific inquiry to search new knowledge in science. Therefore, understanding the meaning and importance of scientific inquiry is useful for teaching science. Learning through scientific inquiry involves hands-on and minds-on activities, using processes of science and cognitive processes. Since 1990s science education has been moving towards an inquiry-based constructivism. Inquiry is a fundamental component of effective science teaching and learning. Third, traditionally school science teaching has ignored exploration of the nature of science. NOV - DECEMBER, 2014. VOL-II/XV
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