- Two well-known educational psychologists are Piaget and Vygotsky. Although both psychologists believe that cognitive development occurs with meaningful experiences, they differ on the role of the teacher in the learning process. Piaget claims the best learning occurs through discovery, where the teacher has a limited role in learning. Vygotsky claims teachers have an active role in the learning process.
- There are four major principles of the social constructionist theory. First, learning is a collaborative and social experience. Second, the zone of proximal development should be used by teachers throughout learning experiences. Next, "real world" experiences give students meaningful context for learning. Finally, school experiences should be reinforced by out-of-school experiences.
- The zone of proximal development is one of Vygotsky's best-known ideas. It suggests that students can learn things that are beyond their understanding through collaboration and help. Adults and teachers provide cultural and language tools to assist in learning.
- Teachers facilitate learning by serving as a guide in learning activities. They encourage learning, pose questions and give advice. Teachers also provide a cultural context for students and facilitate learning through language development.
- The social constructionist theory has many methods for best practice instruction. Problem-based learning and role-playing activities provide both meaningful experiences that involve collaboration among students. Simulation and telecommunication with experts also help students learn in a social context.
