FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What best describes the underlying principle of constructivism in education?

1. Passive absorption of facts

2. Constructing knowledge through experience

3. Emphasis on rote memorization

4. Prioritizing standardized testing

The correct answer is: Constructing knowledge through experience

The underlying principle of constructivism in education emphasizes that learners actively construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflection. This approach encourages students to engage with concepts, explore their own ideas, and connect new information with their existing knowledge. Rather than simply receiving information as passive recipients, students take part in meaningful learning experiences that allow them to make sense of what they are learning, fostering critical thinking and deeper understanding. In this context, the focus is on the process of learning itself, where students participate in discussions, collaborate with peers, and engage in hands-on activities that promote exploration and experimentation. This principle supports the idea that knowledge is not just transmitted from teacher to student but is built through the learner's experiences and interactions with their environment.