Trauma: Constructivist Theoretical Framework

Abstract

The constructivist approach to learning is a theoretical orientation that posits that individuals create their own understanding and knowledge of the world through their experiences and interactions with it. This approach emphasizes that learning is an active process and individuals are not passive recipients of knowledge. When used concurrently with trauma informed practices, a constructivist approach can inform social, emotional, and mental health, as well as academic success. This framework can be applied to teachers and students. When applied to teachers it can be used for purposeful coping mechanisms through restorative justice and dispositional mindfulness. When applied to students the framework can implement proactive, student-based practices such as Response to Intervention and the 4 Rs to connect resiliency and intervention to academic learning. Using a constructivist, trauma informed framework can provide students with greater sense of control and agency over their trauma experiences and impart confidence in achieving school success.