Discussion Committee:
Dr. Ali Hasan Hapayeb/supervisor
Dr. Naser Sa'afeen/external examiner
Dr. Salah Yassen/internal examiner
Supervisors:
Dr. Ali Hasan Hapayeb/supervisor
Abstract:
This study aimed at finding out the degree of knowledge and application of the constructivist theory by the lower-basic school teachers in Nablus Governorate. The total population of the study was 1,589 teachers of both sexes. The study also sought to find out if there was a relationship between the degree of knowledge and application of this theory and the variables of academic qualification, specialization, and years of experience.
In order to achieve the study objectives, the researcher constructed two instruments for the study: a questionnaire and an observation card. The 35- item questionnaire had twodomains: knowledge of the principles of the constructivist theory and the application of its principles . The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 314 teachers of both sexes.The observationcard had 27 items. The researcher made 22 observations, one observation per teacher.
The two instruments were verified by referring them to a committee of referees. The questionnaire tool was verified for its reliability by calculating the Cronbach alpha equation. The factor of the first domain was0.857 whereas the factor of the second domain was 0.804.
The study findings showed that the degree of knowledge and application of the principles constructivist theory by the teachers at the lower-basic schools was high.No statistically significant differences at the significance level (a = 0.05) were found between the means of knowledge and application of the constructivist theory principles by the teachers at the low-basic schools which could be attributed to the variables of the academic qualification, university specialization and years of experience. There was, however, a significant difference at the significance level (a = 0.05) between the means of knowledge and application of the constructivist theory principles by the teachers at the lower-basic schools in favor of the application of the constructivist theory principles.
In the light of the study findings, the researcher recommends making an effort to reinforce the cognitive culture of the constructivist methodology. She also suggests organizing training courses for teachers on the hows of employing scientific research while taking in consideration the resources available for the learners inside and outside the school.