Developing Sustainable Literary Competence through Literature Education: A Constructivist Perspective

Author(s) : Muhammad Riaz , Dr. Aneela Gill , Dr Muhammad Safeer Awan

Abstract:

Constructivism, as a learning theory, posits that learners actively construct knowledge rather than passively receive information. Through interaction with their environment and reflective engagement, individuals develop their own conceptual representations and integrate new knowledge into pre-existing cognitive frameworks (schemas). Grounded in this paradigm, the present study examines the effectiveness of the constructivist approach in teaching literature to enhance students' Sustainable Literary Competence (SLC) as articulated by Myren-Svelstad (2020). Sustainability, in this context, refers to the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own, encompassing environmental, social, and economic dimensions. It explores how critical reflection, active participation, and collaborative learning facilitate deeper engagement with literary texts. Furthermore, the study investigates the impact of constructivist pedagogy on students' analytical and interpretative skills, demonstrating that this approach fosters literary competence, meaningful discourse, and a profound comprehension of literature. Within a constructivist classroom, the teacher assumes a facilitative role, viewing knowledge as dynamic and evolving based on learners’ prior experiences, while students engage in collaborative knowledge construction. The study underscores the significance of both the teaching-learning process and its outcomes, emphasizing the integration of students' perspectives and observations in assessment practices. Additionally, the research highlights the need for an effectively structured curriculum and a balanced pedagogical framework that operationalizes constructivist principles in learner-centered classrooms. By advocating for a holistic instructional model, this study contributes to the discourse on sustainable literary competence, emphasizing its role in fostering enduring analytical and interpretative skills through teaching literature.
Keywords: Sustainable Literary Competence, Constructivist Approach, Teaching Literature, Learner-Centered Education, Constructivism