FED Learning Theories and Instructional Approaches 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Constructivism as a learning theory holds that students:
- Absorb knowledge passively through direct transmission from teachers
- Actively build understanding by connecting new information to prior knowledge (Correct answer)
- Learn best through isolated drill of discrete skills
- Develop solely through biologically predetermined stages
Correct answer: Actively build understanding by connecting new information to prior knowledge
Constructivism asserts that learners actively construct their own knowledge by integrating new experiences with existing understanding, rather than passively receiving information.
Question 2: Jerome Bruner's concept of 'discovery learning' emphasizes that students learn best when they:
- Receive explicit step-by-step instruction from an expert teacher
- Memorize foundational facts before engaging in higher-order tasks
- Explore and discover principles through hands-on inquiry (Correct answer)
- Follow scripted lessons aligned to standardized curriculum
Correct answer: Explore and discover principles through hands-on inquiry
Bruner advocated for discovery learning, where students actively investigate problems and construct understanding rather than simply receiving information.
Question 3: Scaffolding in instruction refers to:
- Assigning students to ability-based groups for instruction
- Providing temporary, adjustable support to help learners accomplish tasks beyond their current independent ability (Correct answer)
- Structuring content from simple to complex across grade levels
- Using physical manipulatives in early childhood classrooms
Correct answer: Providing temporary, adjustable support to help learners accomplish tasks beyond their current independent ability
Scaffolding involves offering structured support (hints, models, prompts) that is gradually withdrawn as the learner develops competence — a concept closely linked to Vygotsky's ZPD.
Question 4: Which instructional approach is characterized by the teacher explicitly modeling skills, followed by guided practice and then independent practice?
- Inquiry-based learning
- Problem-based learning
- Direct instruction (Correct answer)
- Cooperative learning
Correct answer: Direct instruction
Direct instruction follows a structured sequence of teacher modeling ('I do'), guided practice ('we do'), and independent practice ('you do'), emphasizing clear explanation and immediate feedback.
Question 5: Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is best described as an instructional method where students:
- Practice solving standardized test problems under timed conditions
- Learn content and skills by working through complex, real-world problems (Correct answer)
- Receive individual worksheets matched to their reading level
- Memorize problem-solving algorithms for specific subject areas
Correct answer: Learn content and skills by working through complex, real-world problems
PBL uses authentic, ill-structured problems as the starting point for learning, requiring students to investigate, collaborate, and apply knowledge across disciplines.
Question 6: Differentiated instruction primarily involves:
- Teaching each student entirely separately with individualized lesson plans
- Modifying content, process, products, or environment to meet diverse learner needs (Correct answer)
- Grouping students permanently by ability for all subjects
- Slowing the pace of instruction for all students to ensure mastery
Correct answer: Modifying content, process, products, or environment to meet diverse learner needs
Differentiated instruction adjusts the how and what of teaching based on students' readiness, interests, and learning profiles, while maintaining high expectations for all.
Question 7: In inquiry-based learning, the teacher's primary role is to:
- Deliver structured lectures covering required curriculum content
- Pose questions, guide investigation, and facilitate student-driven exploration (Correct answer)
- Ensure all students reach identical outcomes at the same pace
- Correct student misconceptions through direct reteaching
Correct answer: Pose questions, guide investigation, and facilitate student-driven exploration
In inquiry-based learning, the teacher acts as a facilitator who provokes curiosity, asks guiding questions, and supports student investigation rather than transmitting information.
FED Learning Theories and Instructional Approaches 2
Constructivism as a learning theory holds that students: