Learning Theories Pt. 2

Learning Theories Pt.2

Connectivism

Adult Learning

References

Sociocultural

Sociocultural Theory

Lev Vygotsky believed that the responsibility of developing higher order thinking and functions of the brain is due to peers, parents, and culture (Main, 2023). This is also known as the sociocultural theory which is the idea that society and culture shape who people become. The type of learning that would best for the sociocultural learning theory would be collaborative learning (Main, 2023). When students can work together, they are able to better understand different points of views. Not only this, but they develop more respect for their peers. Learning occurs best when students are being assessed during causal settings (Main, 2023). The best form of assessment in this theory is asking questions and asking a student to further explain within conversation will allow the student to have a better outcome. The main idea of this theory is that students can do anything with the assistance of others. Vygotsky believed that child development ranges in different cultures and it is essential for educators to promote culture within their classrooms (Main, 2023). There are also different tools that different cultures use. For example, one might focus on memory by taking notes, but the other might focus on memory through repeating information (Main, 2023). It is important to encourage students to participate using different tools so that they can better develop their higher order thinking.

Connectivism Theory

The connectivism theory is a recent development from George Simmons and Stephen Downes (WGU, 2021). Introduced in 2005, connectivism is the idea that students should combine all their information, thoughts, and theories to make connections and learn. This theory works to incorporate technology since we are now in the digital age. Technology should be used in school when it best benefits the learning of the students. There are so many types of programs that can be used in our everyday classroom routines. Learning occurs when students think outside of the box and use technology such as google, blogs, online programs, etc. (WGU, 2021). A great way to incorporate this theory is to gamify lessons. Using technology to make lessons more fun will encourage students to learn more. This also encourages collaboration and strategy between students. Although technology can be used as a major tool in and outside the classroom, it can also be distracting. It is important to keep students on track when it comes to using technology to ensure that they are not on other websites.

Adult Leanring Theory

Malcolm Knowles is a major theorist that is associated with the adult learning theory (O’Neill, 2024).). He wanted to understand the differences between the way adults learn vs the way children learn. The key point of this theory is that adults are mature and have already developed knowledge from their experiences (O’Neill, 2024). As adults we are more independent and do not need to rely on others which allows us to transition from an instructor approach to a self-directed approach (O’Neill, 2024).). With that being said, adults who want to continue their education must find their source of motivation. As a child, children are told what to do, why to do it, and the consequences they will face if they do not do it. For adults, it is all up to them to get their work done. This learning theory is a great example to our master’s program. We are all educators that are motivated to make our classroom a better place. With being adults, we have more responsibilities such as work, family, etc. so learning must be accessible for them. It would be nearly impossible to attend a school fulltime while having other life responsibilities. It is important that as adults we do not get discourage because of our age, culture, job, responsibilities etc. you are never too old to better yourself!

References

Main, Paul. (2023). Sociocultural Theory. Structural learning. https://www.structural-learning.com/post/sociocultural-theory O’Neill, Emma. (2024). What is adult learning theory? LearnUpon Blog. https://www.learnupon.com/blog/adult-learning-theory/#:~:text=Developed%20by%20Malcolm%20Knowles%20in,how%20it%20differs%20from%20children. WGU. (2021). Connectivism learning theory. https://www.wgu.edu/blog/connectivism-learning-theory2105.html#:~:text=Connectivism%20was%20first%20introduced%20in,was%20published%20the%20following%20year.