The Synergy Between Digital Tools and Modern Constructivist Pedagogies

This article explores the correlation and the synergy between inquiry – based science education (IBSE) as an example of social constructivist pedagogy and digital learning environments. The main premises for an IBSE – type education are determined by the need of knowledge-based society in scientifically literate labor force. The main features of inquiry-based science education are examined and the formation of lifelong learning skills is presented as one of the main benefits brought by IBSE. Other outcomes of IBSE are: the need for permanent learning and research as a part of professional and intellectual growth of personality; the development of an active scientific vocabulary of students; enhanced motivation to learn and explore namely in a digital environment. Three pillars for building a modern educational system are presented: i) constructivist pedagogy; ii) a higher degree of student – student and student – teacher interaction; and iii) digital learning environment. The mandatory components of digital learning environment are presented and the main principles for embedding ICT in education are enumerated.