What is the relationship between the mindset of constructivism and adult learning models, such as

McClusky, Illeris, or Jarvis?

According to Merriam, Caffarella and Baumgartner (2007), all three of these models combine multiple
aspects of the learner, experiences, and environment to influence learning. Our situation or history
impacts our ability or readiness to learn. The McClusky Model focuses on the balance of the two factors
of margin: load and power. The level of each of these affects our ability to learn, such as the amount of
time or resources we have at our disposal. The Illeris Model points out three areas that affect learning,
including cognition, emotion, and environment. The Jarvis Model focuses on the whole person and how
our history and prior knowledge defines the way that we learn. Each of these models takes into
consideration our experiences, current situation, our existing skills and abilities, and our environmental
situations, or a combination of them, so that we can construct new knowledge.

Looking at the infographic of Knowles framework of andragogy, how do models such as experiential or
transformation help us achieve the needs that adults have based on perspectives from andragogy?

It is important for adult learners to know why they need to learn something so that they can become
more engaged and motivated learners. Adults also learn many things in life from experience, which is
the most valuable form of learning. Problem solving is also very important and requires that learners
have the ability to think critically and reflect on their existing knowledge and any new knowledge that
may need to be obtained to solve the problem. When adults understand the impact that learning new
knowledge or skills apply to their current situation or jobs, they are more willing to learn. All of these
characteristics can help with transforming the learners perspective and build on their experience to
have a more effective learning event.

Discuss how constructivism is being applied in this course and degree program.

I enjoy the aspect of constructivism that is incorporated into this program because it reinforces the
learning that takes place. This helps us to reflect on our previous knowledge and experiences and then
applying our new knowledge to our real-world situations. The papers we write, the discussions we post,
and the reflections we write all allow us an opportunity to apply our learning to our previous
experiences so that it is more meaningful.

Summarize with an explanation of times where the constructivist learning orientation may not be the
most suited for learning design.

One situation where constructivist learning may not be best suited is in purely memorization, such as
spelling or math. Another area may be when the topic is brand new and there is no prior foundation on
which to build upon. This could be a completely new technology or for introducing a topic or idea that is
completely new, such as a foreign language. The basics must be taught before advanced instruction can
build upon the foundational knowledge.

Reference
Merriam, S., Caffarella, R., and Baumgartner, L. (2007). Learning in adulthood: A comprehensive guide.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.