FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which method encourages active learning through exploration and self-discovery?

1. Cooperative learning

2. Discovery learning

3. Simulations

4. Reciprocal teaching

The correct answer is: Discovery learning

Discovery learning is a method that encourages active learning by allowing students to explore concepts and engage in self-discovery. In this approach, learners encounter new information through hands-on experiences, investigations, and problem-solving activities, which fosters a deeper understanding of the material. This method emphasizes the process of learning, where students ask questions, make connections, and draw conclusions based on their findings, rather than merely receiving information passively from an instructor. By engaging in exploration, learners are more likely to retain knowledge and develop critical thinking skills, as they are actively involved in constructing their own understanding of concepts. Discovery learning aligns with constructivist theories of education, which suggest that knowledge is constructed through experience and reflection. Other methods mentioned, while beneficial for learning, do not primarily focus on encouraging exploration and self-discovery in the same way. For instance, cooperative learning emphasizes collaboration among peers, simulations provide immersive experiences but do not focus on self-directed exploration, and reciprocal teaching involves students teaching each other with guidance from an instructor. Each of these methods has its merits, but discovery learning stands out for its unique focus on exploration and independence in the learning process.