Knowledge Construction

Knowledge construction has emerged out of the Constructivist school of theory, developed by John Dewey, Jean Piaget and others. Modern science has supported knowledge construction theory in demonstrating that humans naturally learn through active methods, rather than passive ways. Montessori's teaching methods rely heavily on knowledge management, supporting a teaching method where students experience the world through first-hand observation and experimentation. Paper Masters can help compose a custom written research paper on knowledge construction that follows your specific guidelines.

Knowledge construction is an active process by which individuals incorporate new content into their existing cognitive frameworks, formulating new conclusions and pieces of evidence as a result. The construction of knowledge is an active process, in that the learner is constantly being forced to reconsider what they know in the wake of new information, cultural understandings, and experiences. Old information is frequently reconsidered, rearranged, and reevaluated according to newly-acquired information. In many ways, the construction of new knowledge is dependent upon the knowledge an individual already possesses; what one individual takes away from an experience might be very different from what another takes away, simply because of their differing prior knowledge.

Knowledge Construction Breakdown

The process of knowledge construction has several parts.

1. First, old information is recalled. This can be done through content review in a classroom or calling upon prior experiences when faced with a new situation.
2. Then, new information is considered and incorporated appropriately with preexisting understandings.
3. The learner is then faced with a challenge: does the new information support existing knowledge or does it force reconsideration and a possible change of perspective or value?
4. The conflict faced by learners often results in the formation of new knowledge.
5. In an ideal situation, the educator would then provide an assessment or other way of monitoring students' knowledge, ensuring that appropriate conclusions are made and that growth is positive.

The active construction of knowledge is the primary goal of all educators, though such development can occur in any given situation, not just the classroom environment.

Using Knowledge Construction

Using knowledge construction, a teacher becomes more of a facilitator of the educational experience, rather than the all-knowing sage. Student-centered learning lies at the heart of knowledge construction, with effective critical thinking skills becoming the key needed result, as opposed to rote memorization of common facts. The student brings his or her own knowledge and experience to the learning process, making choices that lead towards greater understanding.