FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which approach emphasizes that learning is a process where learners build on previous experiences?

1. Behaviorism

2. Constructivism

3. Extrinsic motivation

4. Positive reinforcement

The correct answer is: Constructivism

Constructivism emphasizes that learning is a process where learners build on previous experiences. This approach is rooted in the belief that individuals create their own understanding and knowledge through experiences and reflecting on those experiences. According to constructivist theory, learners actively construct their knowledge rather than passively receiving information. They draw upon what they already know and relate new information to their previous understandings, thereby forming deeper connections and enhancing their overall learning. In contrast, behaviorism focuses on observable behavior and often emphasizes external factors, such as stimuli and responses, rather than the internal processes of the learner. Extrinsic motivation refers to external rewards that encourage behavior, and positive reinforcement is a technique used to increase desired behaviors through rewards. While these concepts can influence learning, they do not inherently address the process of building on previous experiences in the same way that constructivism does.