What is a fundamental principle of constructivist learning theory?

A fundamental principle of constructivist learning theory is that learning is an active process where learners construct their own understanding. This approach emphasizes that knowledge is not just transferred from teacher to student but created through experiences, prior knowledge, and interactions with the environment. Learners engage with new information, relate it to what they already know, and build their own understanding through exploration, problem-solving, and collaboration.

In this context, the notion of active involvement encourages students to take initiative in their learning by posing questions, investigating, and reflecting on their experiences. This contrasts with more traditional views that treat learning as a passive activity focused on memorization or direct instruction. Constructivist theories, championed by philosophers such as Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky, support tailored teaching methods that recognize the individual learner's context, promoting critical thinking and deeper comprehension rather than rote memorization or reliance solely on teacher-led instruction. This empowers learners to become more self-directed, fostering skills that are essential for lifelong learning.