The term “constructivism” is basically applied to both epistemology and the learning theory. In both fields, constructivism simply refers to certain things related to how a person learns as well as the nature of knowledge in general.

Constructivism generally refers to the idea that most learners build knowledge for themselves. An individual learner constructs meaning from certain information as he/she learns. According to the theory, learning is the act of constructing meaning from information obtained.

The Constructivist Learning Theory points out several ideas on learning. One idea is that the act or process of learning involves the use of language. Several researchers have noted that people do talk to themselves while learning. There is in fact a collection of arguments pertaining to this subject. An argument presented by Vigotsky states that learning and language are inextricably intertwined. This argument has a lot to do with the desire of various Native American communities to produce learning materials and develop more learning programs in their own language.

Another idea presented by the theory is that learning is a social activity. This means that the process of learning is closely related with the person’s connection with other human beings such as teachers, family, peers and other casual acquaintances. The Constructivist Learning theory also suggests that learning is contextual, as well as an active process. As an active process, the learner is said to employ sensory input and builds meaning out of it.

Apart from those ideas, the theory also suggests that in order for a person to learn, knowledge is essential. Basing on the theory, it is not possible for the brain to take in new knowledge without having to develop a structure from previously acquired knowledge. Another important thing implied by the theory is that people actually learn how to learn while they are in the process of learning new things.