Book on constructivism

Dr Suzanne Gatt and Dr Yosanne Vella from the Department of Primary Education at the Faculty of Education are the editors of the book Constructivist Teaching in Primary Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, ICT, and Design and Technology, published by Agenda.

This publication is a response to the difficulty in identifying the link between theoretical educational issues and actual classroom teaching. It is intended for student teachers at the University, training to teach in primary school, and also for practising primary teachers. It aims to bring together teaching in a number of subjects under the umbrella of one theory of learning known as constructivism.

Constructivism is one of the central learning theories on which teaching approaches are currently being based. This theory is wide ranging in that not only can it be translated in different forms of teaching approaches but it can also be applied in a number of subjects. Whatever the activity or subject, the focus remains child-centered. The basic premise remains that the child needs to be cognitively active during the learning process. It is, therefore, also in line with the demands of the National Minimum Curriculum being implemented in schools.

The book first tackles constructivism as a theory of learning, describing in detail its various aspects and general implications to classroom teaching The different chapters then illustrate how constructivism can be applied across a number of subjects. The book covers a number of practical examples that teachers may adopt or adapt when teaching young children at primary level.

The book is practical in approach. It is aimed as a teachers' or student-teachers' companion in practice. Practical examples of constructivism in classroom practice are provided for Science, Mathematics, ICT, Design and Technology, and History, Geography and Citizenship.

The book is divided into three sections: the first part deals with the theoretical aspect of constructivism where a review of the main issues within this theory is carried out and its various aspects discussed; the second part focuses on Science, Mathematics, ICT and Design and Technology; the third section tackles Social Studies, incorporating the areas of History, Geography and Citizenship.

There are seven contributors, five of whom are from the UK. The foreword is by Professor Andrew Pollard from Cambridge University. The book is available for sale from Agenda and other leading bookshops.