Revolutionizing Reading with these 3 Constructivist Learning Techniques

Thank you for visiting this constructivist reading blog!

Here, we explore the ever-changing realm of constructivist learning, an educational philosophy that promotes hands-on, experiential education in which students build their own knowledge and understanding of the world. The idea upon which this method is established is that every person's learning is an activity that is specifically shaped by their own set of circumstances.

In this blog we will focus in on three crucial features of the broad field of constructivist ideas that can alter our perspective on reading...

Discover Your Learning Strategy Quiz

Answer the following questions honestly to find out which learning strategy best aligns with your style. Choose the option that resonates with you the most.

Question 1: When you pick up a new book or article, do you:

A) Look for a summary or an introduction to understand the bigger picture. (1 point for Strategy 1)

B) Check out the author's bio or try to understand their perspective. (1 point for Strategy 2)

C) Choose readings based on topics you’re already curious about? (1 point for Strategy 3)

Question 2: What motivates you to keep reading a difficult piece of text?

A) Understanding how this text applies to real-world situations or your personal goals. (1 point for Strategy1)

B) Gaining insights into the author's techniques and viewpoints. (1 point for Strategy 2)

C) Connecting the content to your existing interests or hobbies. (1 point for Strategy 3)

Question 3: How do you engage with a text you're reading for the first time?

A) I start by asking, “What do I expect to learn from this?” (1 point for Strategy 1)

B) I consider the historical context of the author and text. (1 point for Strategy 2)

C) I look for chapters or sections that I’m most excited about. (1 point for Strategy 3)

Question 4: When you encounter a new author, do you:

A) Research why they wrote the text and its significance? (1 point for Strategy 1)

B) Try to find other texts by the same author to understand their style.(1 point for Strategy 2)

C) Pick their work if it covers topics of personal interest, regardless of the author's fame. (1 point for Strategy 3)

Question 5: What is your primary goal in reading?

 A) To gain knowledge that applies to broader concepts or practical use. (1 point for Strategy 1)

B) To appreciate the craft of writing and the depth of the author's thought. (1 point for Strategy 2)

C) To immerse myself in subjects that I love or want to explore further. (1 point for Strategy 3)

Results:

Mostly A's – Strategy 1:  

·       Providing Context and Purpose for Reading

·       You thrive when you understand the "why" behind what you're reading. Here are some tips to enhance this strategy:

·       Before reading, take a moment to reflect on what you aim to learn from the text.

·       Look for real-life applications of the concepts you're reading about.

·       Use pre-reading strategies like skimming and scanning to get a general idea before diving in deep.

Mostly Bs – Strategy 2:

·       Creating Awareness of the Author Behind the Text

·       You're intrigued by the minds behind the words. Enhance your reading experience with these tips:

·       Research the author’s background to get more context on their perspective.

·       Read multiple works by the same author to better understand their unique style.

·       Reflect on how the author’s life and times may have influenced their writing.

Mostly Cs – Strategy 3:

·       Encouraging Students to Read in Areas That Interest Them

·       Your passion is your guide. Make the most of it with these tips:

·       Follow your interests to stay motivated, even when the reading gets tough.

·       Create a reading list based on your hobbies and topics you’re curious about.

·       Set aside time for exploratory reading without a specific goal in mind, just to enjoy where your interests take you.

Topic 1: Providing Context and Purpose for Reading

Understanding the meaning of words in a larger context is an essential part of reading, which goes beyond simple decoding. In this section, we go into the ways in which giving readers a specific reason to read may greatly improve their understanding and involvement. For what purpose are we reading this specific text? From what do we derive any practical implications? How can we gain a more profound knowledge and appreciation for this piece of literature by learning about its historical, cultural, and social context? This part of our blog sheds light on how important context is for turning reading into an interactive experience.

Historical Context in Literature:

• When students read "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, understanding the historical context of the 1930s American South, including the Jim Crow laws and racial segregation, is crucial. This context helps students grasp the significance of the novel's themes, such as racial injustice and moral growth. Without this background knowledge, the depth of the story's social commentary might be lost.
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Cultural Context in Global Texts:

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• Reading Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" becomes a richer experience when students learn about the Igbo culture of Nigeria and the impact of colonialism. This understanding illuminates the complexities of cultural change and conflict, allowing students to appreciate the novel's exploration of identity, tradition, and colonial impact.

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Contemporary Relevance in Classic Works:

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• While studying Shakespeare's "Hamlet," educators can draw parallels between the play's exploration of mental health, ethics, and power dynamics and current societal issues. Discussing how these themes resonate in today's world can make a centuries-old play feel relevant and engaging for students.

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Scientific and Technical Contexts in Non-Fiction:

• When students read a scientific article about climate change, providing them with context about the history of environmental science and current debates in climate policy can deepen their understanding of the article's significance and urgency.

Socio-Political Context in News Articles:

• When students are reading a news article about a recent political event, understanding the broader political climate, historical relations between the countries involved, and the social implications can lead to a more nuanced understanding of the event and its potential impact.

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Author's Background in Understanding Perspective:

• Knowing about George Orwell's experiences during the Spanish Civil War and his views on totalitarianism adds layers of meaning to his novels "1984" and "Animal Farm." This background helps students see these works not just as stories, but as commentaries on power, control, and resistance.

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Connecting Literature to Personal Experiences:

• In discussing a novel dealing with themes of adolescence, such as J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye," teachers can encourage students to reflect on their own experiences of growing up. This connection can make the text more relatable and meaningful.

Topic 2: Creating Awareness of the Author Behind the Text

A writer's worldview, prejudices, and experiences show through in every piece of writing they've ever done. Here we explore the significance of hearing and comprehending the author's tone of voice. In what ways does a writer's upbringing, experiences, and political beliefs colour their work? We pave the way for a more sophisticated and critical reading of texts when we ask pupils to think about the author's perspective. Reading becomes more meaningful when pupils are cognizant of the power dynamics at work and of the many perspectives presented in literature.

Virginia Woolf:

1. • Woolf’s struggles with mental illness and her feminist views are key to understanding her approach to writing. The novel’s exploration of the characters' inner thoughts and Woolf's stream-of-consciousness style reflect her views on the complexity of the human mind and the societal roles of women.
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2. Orwell's "1984" or "Animal Farm":

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   • George Orwell’s experiences in the Spanish Civil War and his observations of totalitarian regimes shaped his political beliefs.
   • These novels are direct critiques of totalitarianism, reflecting Orwell’s political views and warnings about the dangers of unchecked government power.
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3. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "Americanah":

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   • Adichie's experiences as a Nigerian living in the United States and the UK provide her with unique perspectives on race, immigration, and identity.
   • The novel reflects these themes, offering insights into the complexities of life as an African immigrant in the Western world.
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4. J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series:

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   • Rowling's experiences with poverty and depression before her success with Harry Potter influenced her portrayal of themes such as overcoming adversity and the importance of friendship.
   • The series includes undercurrents of social inequality, the power of choice, and the significance of love and friendship, reflecting Rowling’s personal values and experiences.
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5. F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby":

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   • Fitzgerald’s experiences during the Roaring Twenties and his observation of the American elite influenced his writing.
   • The novel is a critique of the American Dream and reflects the disillusionment of the post-World War I generation, mirroring Fitzgerald's observations of his contemporaries.
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6. Isabel Allende's "The House of the Spirits":

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   • Allende's experience with the political turmoil in Chile, including the military coup and her own exile, deeply influenced her writing.
   • The novel weaves in elements of magical realism and addresses themes of political and social unrest, reflecting Allende’s personal experiences and beliefs.

Topic 3: Encouraging Students to Read in Areas That Interest Them

Reading has to have personal significance and spark the attention of the reader. We'll talk about how getting kids to choose out books that interest them may encourage a lifelong love of reading and education. Students are more inclined to have an in-depth engagement with books that speak to their experiences, interests, and goals when they have a personal connection to them. This makes reading more pleasant and increases the texts' effect. Students are encouraged to develop a passion for reading and a thirst for knowledge by being given the freedom to delve into materials that captivate them.

1. Choosing Genres That Resonate:

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   • A student who loves science fiction might be more engaged in reading and discussing Ray Bradbury's "Fahrenheit 451" than a traditional literary classic. This choice taps into the student’s existing interests, making the reading experience more enjoyable and meaningful.
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2. Relating to Personal Experiences:

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   • A student who has experienced migration might find a deep connection with "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini or "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Reading stories that mirror their own experiences can validate their feelings and provide new perspectives on their personal journeys.
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3. Exploring Career Interests:

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   • A student interested in pursuing a career in medicine might be more inclined to read non-fiction books like "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot, which can provide insights into the ethical and human aspects of medical research.

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5. Connecting with Cultural Heritage:

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   • Encouraging students to read literature from their own cultural background can foster a sense of pride and identity. For example, a Hispanic student might be inspired by reading "Like Water for Chocolate" by Laura Esquivel or "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez.
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6. Exploring Current Social Issues:

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   • Students interested in social justice might be drawn to books like "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee or "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas, which deal with themes of racial inequality and activism.
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7. Aligning with Hobbies or Interests:

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   • A student passionate about environmental conservation might enjoy reading "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson, enhancing their understanding and passion for the topic.
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8. Graphic Novels and Comics:

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   • For students who are visual learners or less inclined towards traditional texts, graphic novels like "Maus" by Art Spiegelman or "Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi can be compelling ways to engage with complex stories.
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9. Technology and Gaming Enthusiasts:

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   • Students interested in technology or gaming might be more engaged with reading books like "Ready Player One" by Ernest Cline, which can spark discussions about virtual reality, gaming culture, and future technologies.
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10. Personal Development and Self-Help:

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    • Teenagers interested in personal growth might find books like "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens" by Sean Covey more relevant and engaging, offering practical advice and strategies for personal development.

Join us on this exciting journey to explore and revolutionize reading and learning with constructivist strategies! Through this blog, we aim to delve into critical issues, share our discoveries, and we're inviting you – educators, learners – to contribute your valuable perspectives. Your participation will not only enrich the conversation but also broaden our collective understanding. Let's embark on this adventure together and witness the transformative power of these innovative approaches!

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