Technology Integration and Constructivism Theory - Essay Example

The construction of knowledge, therefore, depends on diverse and dynamic representations. Meaning, learning, and subsequent knowledge come from past, present, or new experiences learners face from time to time. This makes the construction of knowledge an ongoing process in the life of an individual.

The practice of constructing knowledge from experiences and ideas best describe constructivism. On the same note, assimilation and accommodation enhance the extent to which knowledge is constructed. It is important to note that different people have different internal representations that build a diverse understanding of the world. In this respect, frameworks inform the understanding of the world that differs from one person to another. The importance of this observation is that learn to create new experiences without altering their framework of understanding. This allows an individual to assimilate emerging experiences while capitalizing on what they already know. In addition, accommodation in the context of constructivism helps align reframed mental frameworks with new experiences and/or ideas (Fosnot, 2013). In so doing, individuals learn to construct knowledge from emerging trends in the world.

Constructivism theory is an integral part of technological development. For example, programming languages are always changing. Such changes are subject to the influence of diverse and dynamic factors, but the common denominator is that they produce relevant knowledge that enhances the understanding of the world. Programming is notably an experience and the expression of an idea. On the same note, programming gives rise to new experiences and ideas that people choose to assimilate and/or accommodate. A key example in that regard is the use of Logo programming language, which Duffy and Jonassen (2013) essentially associate with constructivism. Most importantly, technology is a key tool in today’s instructional strategies. More and more academic institutions are increasingly embracing the use of educational technology. This shows that technology is an important factor in the construction of knowledge. Additionally, individual experiences and ideas, with assimilation and accommodation, construct knowledge through variant internal and mental representations.

Constructivism with technology is evident in two ways: the world wide web and the creation of software applications (Duffy & Jonassen, 2013). The Internet and the world wide web support the notion of constructivism in the sense that it avails high volumes of readily accessible information. Individuals could make use of this information to learn and construct knowledge. Software applications play the role of diversifying tools for information interpretation and knowledge creation. In this respect, technology is at the core of constructivism.