Constructivism is best described as:

• A. An approach that emphasizes memorization and drill work.
• B. A theory that learning occurs solely through reinforcement.
• C. A view that knowledge is acquired passively through direct instruction.
• D. An approach to teaching and learning based on the premise that cognition—learning—is the result of mental construction.

Answer: (D)

Constructivism holds that learners actively build knowledge by connecting new ideas to prior understandings, testing them against real problems, and refining thinking through experience and reflection. Because learning is seen as a mental construction, instruction should involve exploration, problem solving, collaboration, and opportunities to articulate and adjust one’s ideas. Rote memorization, reinforcement, or passive reception of information align more with other theories, not with constructivism. So, the description that learning results from mental construction of knowledge best captures constructivism.