Constructivist theories of Piaget and Vygotsky : implications for pedagogical practices

Learning theories offer a pedagogical framework for understanding the process of learning and assisting the process of teaching. Actually, a set of learning theories are found to be effective; some of which is constructivism. The basic assumption of constructivism which distinguishes it from the rest of theories of learning is that knowledge is constructed depending on various and previous experiences. Unfortunately, sometimes some teachers shift their attention to other theories and teaching practices that do not take into account the students' personal learning and therefore active knowledge construction. In accordance with the underlying principles of constructivism, two polar views exist: Jean Piaget Theory and Lev Vygotsky Theory. Given this, this paper aims first at finding out the differences between these two main constructivist theories and how they complement each other; further, it aims to provide teacher with the principles of these two theories to be applied in some educational settings.