FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which learning theory emphasizes learning through interaction with the environment?

1. Constructivism

2. Humanism

3. Behaviorism

4. Connectivism

The correct answer is: Constructivism

The emphasis on learning through interaction with the environment is a core principle of constructivism. This theory suggests that knowledge is actively constructed by learners as they engage with their surroundings and experiences. Constructivists believe that learners build their understanding by connecting new information to prior knowledge through hands-on experiences and social interactions. In this context, students are not just passive recipients of information; instead, they play an active role in their learning journey, exploring, questioning, and reflecting upon what they encounter in their environment. This approach recognizes the importance of context and encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking. While humanism focuses on personal growth and the individual's capacity for self-directed learning, and behaviorism centers on observable behaviors and the responses to stimuli, these frameworks do not prioritize environmental interaction in the same way. Connectivism, which emphasizes learning in the digital age and the importance of networks, also diverges from the foundational elements of constructivism when it comes to interactions with the physical environment.