Learning Theory
Objectivism vs Constructivism

Learning theories can be viewed from two opposed
perspectives: objectivism and constructivism
(Jonassen, 1991).
Objectivism

Behavioural theories based on objectivism view
learning as a passive process in which learners
uncritically absorb knowledge from instructors
(Ahmad et al., 1998).
–
knowledge is acquired from external realities.
Constructivism

The constructivist approach representing
cognitive theory assumes that a learner learns
better when he/she discovers things for
themselves.
–
–
Knowledge is seen to be acquired in the learner’s mind
(Watkins, 2000).
A learner controls the pace of learning himself/herself
and the instructors play the role of support rather than
one of direction (Ahmad et al., 1998).
Extensions of Constructivism


The constructivist model has some extensions
including collaborativist model and cognitive
information processing model.
Socioculturalist model, shares many similarities
with the constructivist model in its philosophical
assumptions and goals, but differs primarily on
the importance of the cultural dimension (Leidner
and Jarvenpaa, 1995).