Learning Theories Part 2

learning theories: part 2

Major Theorists

Major Theorists

Characteristics

Characteristics

Sociocultural

Connectivism

Role of memory

Role of memory

Learning Types

Learning Types

*hover over the small icons associated with each theory to see how learning occurs!

*click on the + signs to see more information on each learning theory!

Major Theorists

Role of memory

Adult Learning Theory

Characteristics

Learning Types

references

Connectivism accepts that technology is a major part of the learning process and that our constant ability to be connected allows for opportunities to make choices about our learning. It also promotes group collaboration and discussion, allowing for different viewpoints and perspectives when it comes to decision-making, problem-solving, and making sense of information. Connectivism promotes learning that happens outside of an individual, such as through social media, online networks, blogs, or information databases (WGU, 2021).

major sociocultural theorist

Russian psychologist Lev Vygotsky pioneered the concept of sociocultural theory and learning. Sociocultural theory is based on the foundation that the social origins and cultural bases that a child is exposed to greatly impacts their development. In his view, children developed their potential via enculturation into society’s mores and norms. (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017).

connectivism learning types

• The use of social media as a learning tool
• Writing on blogs
• Gamification of activities
• Simulations using online programs
• Webinars and online courses

(Western Governors University, 2021)

the role of memory according to connectivism

• Connectivism differs from other learning theories in the way that students have a different type of agency. The learner has a unique opportunity within connectivism to create their own learning experience, engage in decision making, and enhance their learning networks (WGU, 2021). They learn by utilizing different facets of technology.

major adult learning theorist

In 1968, Malcolm Knowles, a professor of education at Boston University, theorized that adult learning and childhood learning are entirely different and that adults do not process or retain information in the same manner as children. As such, he proposed an alternative set of assumptions about adult learners that serve as the basic adult learning principles (Feder, 2024).

major connectivism theorists

Connectivism was first introduced in 2005 by two theorists, George Siemens and Stephen Downes. Through connectivism, the theorists address the important role technology plays in the learning process and how the increased exposure and use of technology has increased the speed at which students have access to information. While Siemens tends to focus on the social aspects of connectivism, Downes focuses on non-human appliances and machine-based learning. (WGU, 2021).

sociocultural learning types

• Human tools, vary by culture
• learning a language
• Utilzing counting systems,
• Observing works of art
• Mnemonic techniques
• Note taking
• Mind maps

(Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017)

the role of memory according to adult learning theory

• Adult learning theory emphasizes the relevance and practical application of knowledge. Adults are more motivated to learn when they see the direct benefit of the learning material to their personal or professional life.
• By making learning relevant, adult education becomes more engaging and effective, leading to better retention and application of knowledge (Feder, 2024).

the role of memory according to the sociocultural learning theory

• In this theory, the learner seeks to understand the thoughts and actions of 'expert' learners and then internalizes them into their memory (Medical College of Wisconsin, 2022).
• According to Vygotsky, there are Elementary Mental Functions: basic cognitive processes of Attention, Sensation, Perception and Memory. Learners interact with their sociocultural environment and improve their skills using whatever their culture provides to do so (Loveless, 2023).

adult learning types

• Application to experiences or real life
• Learning that aligns with their personal goals
• Learning with and alongside fellow adults in the educational setting

(Feder, 2024)

Theorist Malcolm Knowles proposed that adult learning and childhood learning are entirely different and that adults do not process or retain information in the same manner as children. As a result, he proposed an alternative set of assumptions about adult learners that serve as the basic adult learning principles: adults have a need to know, are self-directed, draw upon their lived experiences, have a readiness to learn, their learning is life-centered, and adults are driven by a motivation to learn (Feder, 2024).

The sociocultural theory of cognitive development explores the influence that a learner's environment and interactions has on individual development. It asserts that "learning is a mostly social process whereby development occurs through interactions with people who possess more knowledge or skill than the learner (Medical College of Wisconsin, 2022). The sociocultural theory also utilizes the Zone of Proximal Development, The Zone of Proximal which asserts the notion that a learner can extend beyond their own innate ability through interaction with others in their environment (Medical College of Wisconsin, 2022).