Criticisms have recently been voiced of constructivism, the leading metaphor of human learning since the 1970s. Inspired by inconsistencies in interpretations of constructivism in current literature, we examine the underlying epistemological beliefs of popular constructivist theories and their criticisms. We find that popular constructivist claims…

This paper develops a critical methodology which could be applied to the study and use of e-learning environments. The foundations are, first, an ontological appreciation of environments as multiple, dynamic and interactive: this is based on the environmental theories of Vladimir Vernadsky. The next step is then into epistemology, and here use is…

A learner-centered approach is based on the need for educational environments which promote lifelong learning, enhance critical thinking, regard teachers and learners as both teachers and learners, and encourage personal empowerment. The conceptual paradigm suggested in this document is intended for learning-space creators interested in designs…

Reaching a consensus with regard to fundamental issues involving pluralistic epistemological ideologies entails discourse and argumentation as one attempts to find a fit among his or her beliefs, other individuals' beliefs, and the particular points under consideration. Thus it may be easy to accept the notion of not reaching consensus about…

The "Report of the Holmes Group: Tomorrow's Teachers" (1986) impacted the teacher education reform movement. The epistemological methodology inherent in its proposal requires consideration to establish its philosophical foundations and to appreciate the special nature of its teacher education model. Comparison with a dissimilar…

This book contains 15 essays written between 1969 through 1983. The essays included are: (1) "Semantic Analysis of Verbs in Terms of Conceptual Situations"; (2) "'Because' and the Concepts of Causation"; (3) "The Development of Language as Purposive Behavior"; (4) "Adaptation and Viability"; (5) "On the…

Like any apparently novel approach to the basic epistemological problems of "knowledge," the constructivist ideas that have spread in the last 20 years continue to generate a host of negative as well as a few positive reactions. This document focuses on some aspects of Radical Constructivism, as distinct from "trivial"…

Argues that technology not only represents a set of devices that teachers may use but, more importantly, advances a view about knowledge that shapes social existence and stifles the creative learning that most educators extol. Advocates humanizing educational technology and reintegrating it into the process of learning, not just the classroom…

Modern disillusionment with rationalistic and mechanistic creeds increases the relevance of the thought of Giambattista Vico, an eighteenth century thinker. Vico's "New Science" dealt with the origins of human consciousness and society, and with the development of human nature, knowledge, and institutions in ways that anticipate modern…

Seven theses are proposed concerning the nature of knowledge, the knower, opinion, learning, truth, the organization of disciplines, and the nature of the university. Systematics, the study of classification, has guided the organization of the university through the disciplines since Plato. (MSE)

The differences between inquiry from a religious perspective and from a nonreligious perspective are examined, and specific implications that these differences may have for curriculum inquiry are discussed. Two separate viewpoints are presented. (JN)

Examines four postmodern forms of thought that are posing fundamental challenges to modern assumptions about knowledge; all reject absolute foundations of knowledge, which are rooted in the notion that legitimate intellectual activity is the discipline-based pursuit of knowledge of entities that exist before and independent of inquiry. Offers a…

Compares radical and social constructivism, noting that in radical constructivism the role of the teacher in inducting the learner into existing discourse is inadequately explained, while social constructivist theory offers more to the practitioner. Argues that the former's overemphasis on personal construct theory and almost dismissive attitude…

Presents three basic epistemological positions (empiricism, nativism, and constructivism) and argues that Maria Montessori's educational practice reflected all three positions. Describes how the constructivist position is reflected in the High/Scope program, and compares and contrasts this position with that of Montessori. Asserts that although…

Contrasts the epistemological world view of education found in Western industrialized societies with an emerging ecopolitical view which is based in an Aristotelian moral universe. Points out that reforms may affect procedures and practices without altering purposes and values. Suggests that these traditions should be transcended in order to gain…