The idea of the constructivism learning theory puts the students in an active position in their own learning. It requires them to actively engage in what that particular lesson is. The theory is that the more active that they are, the easier it is for them to process, understand, and apply what they have learned. In my classroom, this theory holds true for most of my students. Using this concept, my students can build their knowledge and understanding together under my watchful eye. They are engaged with a hands on approach and this allows them to relate it to something that they may already know and store it as new knowledge.
This theory however does not work for all students. Some of my students shut down completely when they are forced to be engaged. I have one class in particular that would rather sit there all day and take notes. This means that they do not have to do work. Some of them may not learn that way, but that is not their concern at the moment. Their concern is to stay under the radar. I have a few students who have been diagnosed with autism. One of which refuses to work with other students. He will do anything that you ask of him individually, but will not actively engage in learning with other students. He is able to use other methods of learning and apply them, just not cooperative learning.
Overall, most of my students tend to gain more from working hands on with their peers rather than working by themselves or by direct instruction. As the teacher , it is our job to find the middle ground where all of our students become successful in our classroom.