Constructivist approach

Definition

The constructivist approach is a teaching philosophy that emphasizes active learning and the idea that learners construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflection. In dance education, this approach encourages students to engage with movement, explore their creativity, and develop personal interpretations, fostering deeper connections to the art form.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The constructivist approach in dance education promotes individual expression, allowing students to interpret movement in ways that resonate personally with them.
2. Teachers using this approach act as facilitators, guiding students rather than dictating the learning process, which helps foster a more collaborative learning environment.
3. This approach encourages peer interaction, where students learn from each other by sharing ideas and feedback during class activities.
4. Constructivist methods align well with contemporary dance practices that value improvisation and personal narrative in performance.
5. The ultimate goal of the constructivist approach is to cultivate lifelong learners who are confident in their abilities to create, interpret, and perform dance.

Review Questions

• How does the constructivist approach enhance student engagement in dance education?
  • The constructivist approach enhances student engagement by promoting active participation and personal exploration within the learning process. By encouraging students to express their individuality through movement and make connections to their own experiences, they become more invested in their learning. This method fosters a sense of ownership over their artistic development and motivates them to participate fully in class activities.
• Discuss the role of the teacher in a constructivist dance education setting and how it differs from traditional teaching methods.
  • In a constructivist dance education setting, the teacher acts as a facilitator who guides students rather than simply providing information or instructions. This contrasts with traditional methods where the teacher is often seen as the primary source of knowledge. By encouraging students to explore and express themselves creatively, the teacher fosters a collaborative environment that promotes critical thinking and peer learning.
• Evaluate how the principles of the constructivist approach can influence the curriculum design for a dance program.
  • The principles of the constructivist approach significantly influence curriculum design for a dance program by prioritizing flexibility, creativity, and student-centered learning. Curriculum developed under this framework would include opportunities for improvisation, collaborative projects, and individual exploration of movement. This not only allows for varied student experiences but also prepares them to adapt their skills for diverse contexts in dance. Consequently, such a curriculum cultivates critical thinking and encourages learners to become innovative artists who can reflect on their practice and make informed creative choices.

Related terms

Active Learning: A teaching method that actively engages students in the learning process, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving through hands-on activities.

Experiential Learning: A process through which learners gain knowledge and skills from direct experiences, often emphasizing reflection and application in real-world contexts.

Inquiry-Based Learning: An educational strategy that encourages students to ask questions, conduct investigations, and build knowledge through exploration and research.