What do you mean by discovery learning?
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What is Discovery Learning The idea behind Discovery Learning is that students utilize prior knowledge, existing knowledge, and new knowledge gained to discover new ideas, truths, or beliefs about a topic. Discovery Learning is a constructivist theory. With Discovery Learning, students are able to utilize their cognitive ability to gain new knowledge. In other words, students may not all be at the same level of learning; each student can gain a different level of knowledge on a topic in his/her own way and still reach the intended outcome set by the teacher. Discovery learning is inquiry based; teachers can give the students a question about a topic and the students work to discover the facts and make connections in order to learn the material. It is very important with Discovery Learning that teachers take an active role in ensuring that students are going in the right direction with their learning; teachers must actively look to see if students are gathering misconceptions about a topic and then correct those misconceptions. Who is the founder of Discovery Learning? Jerome Bruner is considered to be the founder of the constructivist theory. According to Bruner, Discovery Learning is where, "...learners construct new ideas or concepts based upon existing knowledge." (Theories of Learning) Bruner does not like the idea of grades or class rank as a motivating factor for students to learn material. Instead, he feels that the motivation comes from an interest in the subject area. The idea of Discovery Learning allows for students to gain an interest in the subject knowledge. What are students doing during Discovery Learning? Students may be:
What are considered to be the advantages of Discovery Learning? There are many advantages to Discovery Learning. These may include:
What do critics say? Critics of Discovery Learning worry that students may develop misconceptions and that the teachers may not catch these misconceptions in enough time, resulting in having to reteach material. They also worry that students will experience "cognitive overload" (Learning Theories Knowledgebase) What would be a common example of Discovery Learning? One of the most common forms of Discovery Learning is the scientific model. In this model students must: 1. Identify the problem. 2. Generate a hypothesis. 3. Test the hypothesis. 4. Apply the results of the test to prove or disprove the hypothesis. Based on this model, students will either prove that their hypothesis was correct or have to learn information about why it was disproven. Another example would be the problem-based model. In this model, students are given a problem to solve. In order to solve the problem, students must gather information, research, and ask questions about possible solutions to the given problem. Having students create simulations of things is another example of Discovery Learning. Students may have to discover how something works or apply information in order to provide an accurate simulation. What does Bruner say? YouTube VideoWhat does it look like in the classroom? What does Discovery Learning look like?Sources Tomei, L. (2004, October 20). Learning Theories -- A Primer Exercise An Examination of Cognitivism: The Psychology of Knowledge and Strategies. Retrieved April 14, 2011, from http://academics.rmu.edu/~tomei/ed711psy/c_bruner.htm All images gathered from Google Images Site created by: Kirsten Harder What is discovery learning example?Discovery learning takes place in problem solving situations where learners interact with their environment by exploring and manipulating objects, wrestling with questions and controversies, or performing experiments, while drawing on their own experience and prior knowledge.
Why is discovery important in learning?Discovery-based learning has a number of benefits which help develop students. It encourages active engagement from students, promotes motivation, promotes autonomy, responsibility, independence, develops creativity and problem-solving skills and provides a tailored learning experience for that student.
How can we use discovery learning?When students do their own research, ask critical questions, and form conclusions on their own, they strengthen their problem-solving skills. This technique, known as Discovery Learning, has been especially effective with students with special needs.
What is the meaning of discovery method of teaching?The Discovery Learning Method is a constructivist theory, meaning it is based on the idea that students construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiencing things and reflecting on those experiences.
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