Project Dates: 2017 – present
Thailand: the longest Constructionist implementation in the world
We have been researching what is likely the longest continuous Constructionist implementation in the world in Thailand. This unique project extends beyond pre-university education into community development projects and corporate business practices. Nowhere else have the principles of Constructionism been applied for so long, in such a wide range of institutions, and with such intentionality, persistence, and conscious incorporation of local cultural practices and beliefs.
For these reasons, Thai Constructionism offers lessons to inspire community leaders, teachers, and business people internationally and provides leadership in the way to real transformation, integrating community and personal development, education, technologies and powerful ideas.
Findings
The 25-year history of the Constructionism movement in Thailand, with particular emphasis on how the ideas of Constructionism have been adapted and implemented, was researched over a five year period of intensive field data collection and analysis.
The primary findings of that research are currently being documented and are organized along the following three main categories and sub-sections:
Principles of “Thai Constructionism”
- Start with People’s Interests or Problems
- Learner Agency
- Reflection as a Core Practice
- “Low Ego” Approach to Mistakes
- Connect with Spirituality through Meditation
Core attributes of past and future successes:
- Deep Internalization/Personal Transformation
- Long-Term Mentorship and “Thinking Alongside”
- Just-in-Time Resources
- Bridging Communities, or “Brokering”
Obstacles faced in the implementation of Constructionism in Thailand:
- Maintaining Stability Despite Changing Institutional Leadership
- The Importance of Leaders who Understand Constructionism Deeply
- Benefits and Limitations of Technology Workshops
- Navigating Formal Schooling with Learner-Driven Projects