A Path to Unlocking Deep Learning in Science
Hands-on, minds-on learning experiences help ensure that students gain a deep understanding of science concepts.
For many educators, the term constructivism brings to mind a core principle from their teacher preparation.
This foundational learning theory is a frequent topic in academic literature, appearing in peer-reviewed articles on platforms like EBSCOhost.
While the central tenet of constructivism—
meaningful learning happens through active involvement—is widely understood, applying that is often challenging.
In my work with teachers and curriculum specialists, I’ve found a fantastic entry point into constructivist theory: Shift the focus from just hands-on to encouraging minds-on learning.
To truly embed this learning-by-doing approach—and meet the goals of modern frameworks like the Next Generation Science Standards—we can focus on four essential elements.
Teachers who already use hands-on activities can make a smooth transition to constructivist approaches.
Author summary: Unlocking deep learning in science through constructivism.