Pattern language and the future of education in light of constructivist learning theories, Part 1: Consideration with generic epistemology by Jean Piaget

In light of the constructivist learning theory proposed by Jean Piaget, this paper describes how pattern languages support one's learning and what the education of the future should be like. His theory, known as generic epistemology, claims that knowledge is never just imparted from the external world, but it is always constructed within individuals through the processes called "assimilation" and "accommodation". From this theory, it becomes clear that the physical written patterns are not effective if they are just read through, and it is important that readers take actions and learn from their own experiences. Piaget's theory therefore implies two suggestions to pattern writers: (1) to make it sure that each pattern description is sophisticated enough in that it is persuasive and sympathetic for readers to be motivated to take actions; (2) to design appropriate environments for readers to learn patterns. In this paper, therefore, we introduce the "Dialogue Workshop" which is one of practices by Takashi Iba, one of the authors of this paper, at Keio University and has been enhancing the effectiveness of pattern languages in terms of learning and education. We conclude this paper by discussing the education of the future, enlightened by the pattern language and Piaget's generic epistemology. We hope that the readers of this paper will see pattern languages as a useful creative tool which will develop and support future education.