Learning Theories Part 2
Hollie Sandefur College of Education, Grand Canyon University EDU-522-Curriculum Design Theories Heather Hamtil July 5, 2023
Sociocultural Theory
Major Theorist
Major Characteristics
Major Characteristics
Role of Memory
How Learning Occurs
Types of Learning
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Connectivism Theory
Major Theorist
Major Characteristics
Major Characteristics
Role of Memory
How Learning Occurs
Types of Learning
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Adult Learning Theory
Major Theorist
Major Characteristics
Major Characteristics
Role of Memory
How Learning Occurs
Types of Learning
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References
Alkhudiry, R. (2022). The Contribution of Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory in Mediating L2 Knowledge Co-Construction. Theory and Practice in Language Studies, 12(10), 2117. https://doi-org.lopes.idm.oclc.org/10.17507/tpls.1210.19 Ornstein, A. C., & Hunkins, F. P. (2016). Curriculum (7th ed.). Pearson Education. Pappas, C. (2013). The adult learning theory: Andragogy of Malcom Knowles. e-learning industry. https://elearningindustry.com/the-adult-learning-theory-andragogy-of-malcolm-knowles
Peer, K. S., & McClendon, R. C. (2022). Sociocultural Learning Theory in Practice: Implications for Athletic Training Educators. Journal of Athletic Training, 37(4 suppl), S-136. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC164414/
Western Governors University. (2021, May 27). Connectivism Learning Theory. Western Governors University. https://www.wgu.edu/blog/connectivism-learning-theory2105.html
The other major characteristics of connectivism are learning and knowledge that is taken from the opinions of all involved, learning and the process of making connections are vital. The learner needs to acknowledge that information is always changing, and that might affect decisions being made (Western Governors University, 2021).
The most unique characteristic of connectivism is that it acknowledges the use of technology. People rely on devices to store information. Knowing how to access this is also knowledge. Connections and knowledge are made with the technology devices.
Learning is an interactive process completed by an individual arranging concepts, social objects, and activities in a manner to make sense of the information. (Alkhudiry, R. 2022). The learner is best served by interacting and consciously learning with those that are in their environment.
The major theorist associated with Adult Learning Theory is Malcolm Knowles. In the 1980's he studied the way adults learn compared to how children learn.
Another way to describe learning using this theory is the use of scaffolding. When teachers use scaffolding they are putting supports in place for the student to be successful. As the supports are no longer needed, they are removed.
One of the best ways to describe learning using sociocultural theory is I do-We do-You do. This is when the teacher or peer shows what to do, then the teacher or peer and learner do it together, and finally, the learner does it independently. This teaching can happen in a formal or informal setting.
The role of memory in connectivism is unique. The person has previous memories and knowledge. With this, the person can then use devices to find knowledge and apply it or reject it. The person does not necessarily need to know and retain all the information, as the information might be changing, but the person does need to know how to find it. (Western Governors University 2021).
Learning happens when students and teachers are together sharing opinions and thoughts. When collaborating together, all that are involved can validate the conversation and what is happening. The knowledge is spread to multiple people at one time. In order for this to happen the teacher needs to have the physical and emotional classroom environment set up to create sage meaningful collaboration. (Western Governors University 2021).
Included are some of the major characteristics of this theory. One is social interaction which includes the culture around the child. Another is the environment for the learner. Finally, the cognitive development of the child with skills in mimicking peers and skilled people they are around.
The role of memory in sociocultural theory is that children use their past to make connections with what is in front of them. Arranging and rearranging language to help form connections to create semantic memory also occurs when they are mentally challenged by teachers and peers.
Adults have a great deal of memories and experiences that have shaped who they are and how they think about certain subjects. Adults need to be open to new ideas so new pathways can be built to create new memories and connections. Using project-based learning can help create new connections and pathways for long- term use.
Although the connectivism theory has roots in Piaget's theories, George Siemens and Stephen Downes are the main collaborators for this fairly recent learning theory known as connectivism.
Adults learn when they are open to new ideas that might differ from their current values and beliefs. Adults learn best when they know why they are learning something and why it is useful knowledge. Adults want to learn by doing useful tasks and assignments. They need to be internally self-motivated. Motivation can be, motivated by wanting to have personal advancement or wanting to simply learn something new. (Western Governors University, 2020).
Learning occurs when the person is actively seeking information that is relevant to the task. Students should combine thoughts, theories, and general information. The use of technology is encouraged to be used as a useful tool. (Western Governors University, 2021).
The major theorist associated with the Sociocultural theory is the Russian psychologist Lev Vygotsky. This important theorist underscored the dynamic interdependence between the social and individual processes in learning (Peer, K.S. 2002).
Major characteristics included, adults being aware they are learning. They know what the purpose is for what they learning. Adults are capable of hands-on learning and need less instruction as they are experienced in their learning skills. (Western Governors University, 2020). .
The best type of learning for adults occurs when they are involved in the planning and evaluation of their classes. Adults will learn best with problem-centered rather than content-oriented instruction. They will bring prior experience with them that creates the foundation for their learning of a specific activity. The more a subject relates to their current life roles the more meaning it will have. (Pappas, C. 2013).