Saturday, September 5, 2009

What is the diffence between the behaviorist and constructivist lesson plan


The difference between the behaviorist and constructivist lesson plan format

In the behaviorist lesson plan format everything is virtually structured. There is a set format and everyone adhere to this strict format with little or no room for variation. Learning is similar to a set time frame and an event occurs in a series of sequences. The teacher’s role is one that is centered on structured experiences. Lesson is given with guided facts outlined. The teacher is basically the only lead person in this format. In other words one could say that the teacher is the leader and the students are not active followers. On the other hand the student role is a recipient with little or no input. Information and knowledge is given and that individual only receives the facts. Everyone is expected to be learning at the same time and at the same pace. All students are given the same lesson materials and work independently. The mood of the classroom setting is set or planned and focus is the key. The activities are set based on seatwork, testing, lectures, and discussions. Testing is based on written information. In this type of format one can see that everything is systematically placed together.
On the other hand the constructivist lesson plan format is one that goes beyond structure and more hands on approach. Although there are guidelines there is still room for deviation. Learning is not set on specified time fame. The teacher and the students interact. Mainly the focus shifts from teacher to student in an effort to enhance thinking. Information is given based on facts. Then an exploration takes place where prior knowledge is discussed and all information is gathered. There is a bridge that is set to enhance the learning process. Students play an active role as well in this type of format. The teacher is the leader but the students are active participants. Everyone is not isolated. Students can work as groups and individually. In this setting grouping and hands on is the key. In other words one may say that this format is not as strict.
When compared side by side on can see that there is a difference between the behaviorist and the constructivist lesson format and they are not the same. Students still learn regardless of the format use and the teacher is still in control. Facts are given but the format of how the information is displayed is different. As one can see the learning process varies and the guidelines used to bring about learning varies as well. Regardless of the format used as long as the information is given correctly everyone can benefit from using a lesson plan format.

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