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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Positivism and Constructivism?

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Positivism and constructivism are two different philosophical stances that present contrasting ideas of what constitutes knowledge. The main differences between positivism and constructivism are:

  1. Nature of Knowledge: Positivism believes that knowledge is objective and can be discovered through observation and empirical evidence. Constructivism, on the other hand, holds that knowledge is subjective and is constructed by individuals through their interactions with their environment.
  2. Reality: Positivism is based on the assumption that there is an objective reality that can be measured and observed. Constructivism states that reality is socially constructed, meaning that it is built through social interactions and historical and cultural factors.
  3. Dependence: Positivists rely on measurable and observable facts, while constructivism relies on social constructs.
  4. Objectivity and Subjectivity: Positivism emphasizes objectivity, while constructivism leans more towards subjectivity, as individuals create their own perceptions of reality.
  5. Natural Sciences and Social Sciences: Positivism assumes that there is valid knowledge (truth) only in scientific knowledge, while constructivism argues that truth is constructed by social processes and is historically and culturally specific.

In terms of education, positivist teachers may prefer to use direct instruction, standardized tests, and quantitative data, while constructivist teachers may prefer to use inquiry-based learning, authentic assessments, and qualitative data.

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  • What is the Difference Between Positivism and Constructivism?
  • Comparative Table: Positivism vs Constructivism

    • Comparative Table: Positivism vs Constructivism

    Positivism and constructivism are two major epistemologies, or theories of knowledge, that have different views on the generation and verification of knowledge. Here is a table highlighting the key differences between them:

    Positivism Constructivism
    Knowledge is objective and can be discovered through observation and measurement. Knowledge is subjective and constructed by individuals through their interactions with the world.
    Based on the assumption that there is an objective reality that can be measured. Based on the assumption that reality is socially constructed.
    Rely on measurable and observable facts. Rely on social constructs.
    Objectivity is a key characteristic. Constructivism borders more on subjectivity, as individuals create their perception.
    Believe that the assumptions of the social sciences and natural sciences are the same. Believe that social sciences and natural sciences have different assumptions.
    Focus on generalizable truth. Develops from the idea that we want to understand the truths of individuals, how they interpret and experience the world, their thought processes, and the social structures that emerge from sharing those interpretations through language and communication.

    In the field of education, positivist teachers may prefer to use direct instruction, standardized tests, and quantitative data, while constructivist teachers may prefer to use inquiry-based learning, authentic assessments, and qualitative data.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.