A Constructivist Strategy for Medium/Large Student Groups- The Contextual Learning Model

Constructivist theories of learning describe learning as an active process in which learners construct new ideas or concepts based upon their past knowledge or experiences. This makes problem-based learning very attractive compared with traditional medium / large group lectures, which are thought to encourage passive assimilation of knowledge. Problem based learning can however be labor intensive for faculty particularly with medium / large student bodies. This article explores the practicality of a pedagogic application of the constructivist theory of learning, which can be applied to a medium / large body of students in a traditional lecture called the contextual learning model. Students found the sessions enjoyable and interactive and thought the sessions stimulated their thinking, introduced new material and facilitated the far transfer of knowledge.