Learning Theories Part 1 (BCC)

Role of Memory:

How Learning Occurs:

Behaviorism

Remembering the desired response after being exposed to a reinforced stimuli is the touchstone of the behaviorism theory (Newby, 2017). Once the behavior is conditioned, the outcome is a natural response as a result. Forgetting a conditioned response is a possibilty, however, regular reinforcement can renew the reponse.

It is beneficial to provide opportunities for students to practice skills through drills, or repetition, and through guided practice. Modeling desired behavior that is continuously reinforced or rewarded provides consistent reinforcement to ensure the behavior will persist. Cues can be used to assist with elicting a target response (Newby, 2017).

Behaviorism learning theory infers that behaviors are influenced by external factors rather than internal ones (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2016). Behaviors are a result of the environment and experiences (WGU, 2020b). Consistent repetition and reinforcement are key to guiding desired outcomes (WGU, 2020b). Motivation is a key component to consider as positive or negative motivations can reinforce certain types of behaviors.

Types of learning:

Behaviorism theorists provide students opportunities to learn how to recall basic definitions and explain concepts. Learners can benefit from signal learning by linking thoughts or ideas or general problem solving (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2016). This is not a reliable method for analytical learning or higher level skills (Newby, 2017).

Theorist:

John B. Watson is a major theorist associated with behavioral theory.

Role of Memory:

Cognitivism

How Learning Occurs:

Long term and short-term memory are outlined in cognitive learning theory (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2016). As learning occurs, information is stored temporarily in short-term memory unless automatically discarded. If the information is deemed important, it receives a spot to be held for a longer duration in long term memory.

Cognitive learning theory involves considering thought processes and how external and internal elements affect outcomes. Cognitivism can be divided into social cognitive theory or cognitive behavioral theory (WGU, 2020a). Social interactions are a main component that drives the social cognitive behavioral theory (WGU, 2020a). The cognitive behavior theory states that actions are a result of thoughts and feelings (WGU, 2020a).

Allowing students to ask questions and explore their mistakes is a way to guide students to reflect on their thinking. It allows students to find meaning or pivot their thought processes to get back on track. Making connections to prior knowledge while learning new information is also an important part of understanding new concepts.

LEARNING THEORIES

Types of learning:

Montessori is a type of learning that emphasizes exploration within a prepared setting. It allows children to become active participants in their learning (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2016). Piaget also believed that learning occurs as children interact with their environment (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2016).

Theorist:

Jean Piaget is a major theorist associated with cognitive theory.

Constructivism

Role of Memory:

How Learning Occurs:

Memorization, or rote recall, is not relevant to the constructivism learning theory. The importance of thinking and understanding concepts is the ultimate goal. Success can be determined if a student is able to take new information and make connections to prior knowledge (Saunders et al., 2020).

Constructivism learning theory allows the learner to use their individualized prior knowledge while making connections with new information (WGU, 2020c). Learners are active participants in the process. Cognitive constructivism spotlights making connections (WGU, 2020c). Social constructivism focuses on social interactions (WGU, 2020c). Radical constructivism only considers one's experience regardless of their environment.

Collaboration is a key component that allows students to actively take charge of their own unique learning. Instruction should be differentiated to meet the needs of all proficiency levels. Students benefit from having the educator take the role of a facilitator while working in small groups. Educators monitor progress in order to tailor instruction accordingly.

Types of learning:

Opportunities for cooperative learning allows learners to engage in reciprocal teaching and peer tutoring. Group work is a major component of the constructivism theory. Activities that provide group work, such as a jigsaw, allow students the opportunity to internalize concepts and teach others.

Theorist:

John Dewey is a major theorist associated with constructivism theory.