Reflections of a Social Constructivist on Teaching Methods

This paper aims to examine how the combination of theory and practice work effectively in teaching and supporting the learning process. Action research methodology was followed in the research by designing a plan of action in the practicing environment. The research focuses on the interaction of the researcher and participants. Mixed approaches of social science heavily influenced this research by implementing social constructivist understanding of teaching methods. The mixed teaching approach of Biggs and Tang, constructive alignment, was used in teaching sessions by utilizing social constructivist theory, reflexivity, intended learning outcomes, assessment tasks, peer review, and teaching learning activities. The findings of this research present practical recommendations for scholars. Constructive alignment feedback should encourage students to express whether or not their learning is improved in relation to learning outcome. Preparing more visual aids and a greater relaxed atmosphere would possibly help to gain an enhanced level of students' attention for an indirect but more efficient participation. There is an urgent need for teaching skills through master-classes workshops such as "Teaching with Emotional Intelligence", "Assessment of/for Learning", and "Creating Productive Classroom Environments".