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The 3C Merry-Go-Round: Constructivism, Cognitivism, Connectivism, Etc.

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Technology-Enhanced Learning and the Virtual University

Part of the book series: University Development and Administration ((UDAA))

Abstract

The two learning theories cognitivism and constructivism have been around for many years, with constructivism gaining momentum in the sciences firstly and then more broadly across higher education. Connectivism is the newer theory with its grounding in constructivism, and while some may argue it is not a learning theory at all, others disagree and have moved this knowledge and debate forward. Although each theory has some detractors, by and large they are the three main theories taught in higher education courses across the country. This chapter will provide a detailed review of the recent literature for the three theories, provide current definitions, and report on any recent developments from the literature and research. This allows, for example, from the area of educational technology to be paramount. Thus, the second section of this chapter will provide authentic examples from various aspects of teaching online and providing online support. These include how websites such as Griffith University’s Explore Learning and Teaching website can provide for connectivist learning among academics. Other examples are also provided. Constructivism learning theory examples include both course development from a constructivist viewpoint as well as flipped learning examples. With the increasing use of video and active learning in courses, flipped learning provides an excellent way of using constructivist approaches in higher education and through online and virtual learning, via the virtual university.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Learning and Teaching, Charles Sturt University, Albury, NSW, Australia

    Chris Campbell

  2. Learning Futures, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

    Tran Le Nghi Tran

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  1. Director Learning Futures and Lead Education Architect, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia

    Michael David Sankey

  2. Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

    Henk Huijser

  3. The Faculty of Business, Economics and Law, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

    Rachel Fitzgerald

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Campbell, C., Tran, T.L.N. (2023). The 3C Merry-Go-Round: Constructivism, Cognitivism, Connectivism, Etc.. In: Sankey, M.D., Huijser, H., Fitzgerald, R. (eds) Technology-Enhanced Learning and the Virtual University. University Development and Administration. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-4170-4_12

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