Constructivist Theories of Learning

The following clips are taken from the Carl Harris Video Ethnographies. These video cases were created to provide examples of teaching practice to preservice teachers.

The Brenda Beyal Case

In the following video clips, Brenda Beyal has asked her multi-age elementary students to work in groups to create rectangles using the plastic tiles she has given them. Watch all of the clips and think about the following questions:

What are some of the principles of constructivist philosophy that Beyal uses in this activity?
How does Beyal encourage her students to articulate their thought processes.
How much of a problem is discipline during this activity? Why?
Is this a a true constructivist activity? Why or why not?
Would you conduct this activity any differently in your classroom?

Part 1	Part 2	Part 3	Part 4	Part 5

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