Learning Theories Part 2 Mind Map

Adult Learning Theory

Sociocultural Learning Theory

Connectivism Learning Theory

Learning theories part two

EDU- 522 Curriculum Design Theories |Dr. Barley| May 1st 2024| Jessica Greenaway

LEARNING THEORIES

Major Characteristics

Learning

Role of Memory

Learning

Role of Memory

Role of Memory

Major Characteristics

Major Characteristics

Learning

Stephen Downes & George Siemensconnectivismtheorist

A rather modern learning theory known as connectivism proposes that students should collect ideas, theories, and general knowledge from various sources and then integrate them accurately. Formulated in 2005 by George Siemens and Stephen Downes, this theory asserts that technological advancements have transformed how information is accessed, consequently altering the learning process. Connectivism emphasizes group engagement and discussions, enabling individuals to share diverse viewpoints and perspectives when making decisions, addressing issues, and interpreting data.

Malcolm knowlesadult learning theorist

Malcolm Shepherd Knowles was a prominent American educator who is famous for equating Andragogy with adult education. According to Knowles, Andragogy represents the art and science of adult learning, encompassing various forms of adult education. The adult Learning Theory comprises guiding principles that outline the unique ways in which adults learn compared to how children learn.

leo vygotsky sociocultural theorist

Leo Vygotsky, the Russian psychologist, is known for introducing the Sociocultural Learning Theory. His statement, "Through others we become ourselves," encapsulates the essence of this theory, emphasizing that learning is a collaborative social activity..The Sociocultural Learning Theory emphasizes the significance of a learner's surroundings in their learning progress. Vygotsky highlights three essential elements in the learning process: culture, language, and the "zone of proximal development."

Culture: Intelligence is gained by internalizing tools and symbols from culture, allowing individuals to expand their knowledge. Language: Language acquisition is influenced by social events and processes, progressing through social speech, private speech, and inner speech stages. Zone of Proximal Development: It identifies the gap between a learner's potential development and their actual development, aiding instructors in understanding what students can achieve with assistance.

The Sociocultural Learning Theory focuses on:

Role of Memory

Sociocultural learning Theory

Social learning theorists propose that learning can occur through observation and imitation. For a behavior to be imitated, it must be remembered. The observed behavior is initially stored in working memory and then transferred to long-term memory for further examination.

Types of Learning

Collaborative learning: learners work together, aligned with Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development. Language learning: language acquisition intertwined with social practices and culture. Cultural tools: physical and symbolic tools mediate cognitive processes, emphasizing social interaction and cultural context in learning.

Lev Vygotsky suggested that learning occurs through interactions with others. Once this interaction occurs, the acquired knowledge is internalized at an individual level.

How Learning Occurs

Types of Learning

Complex tasks like creating and problem-solving align well with connectivist learning. According to connectivism theory, engaging in these tasks through social learning is considered the most effective approach. This theory also places a strong emphasis on technology-based learning. Using technology and web-based platforms, learners can actively access and structure information while facilitating communication among various knowledge sources within a learning network.

How Learning Occurs

Learning happens as learners establish connections between different concepts and ideas. This process involves linking specialized nodes or information sources together. Knowledge and learning communities are structured within a sophisticated network. Learning networks encompass social, cultural, and technological influences.

Role of Memory

connectivism learning theory

Memory is linked to the active patterns within a learner's network. Memories are stored in the connectivity patterns of each learner's network and are ready to be transferred to new learning environments.

Learning Is A Social Process

• Students learn best through social interaction, sharing ideas and experiences.
• Encourages active student participation in the learning process.

Knowledge is created through collaboration with others rather than delivered by teachers.

• Human learning is influenced by culture, society, traditions, values, and customs.
• Learning experiences should consider cultural and social environments.

Decisions Change Over Time

• Our decisions evolve with increased knowledge and exposure to information.
• Learning shapes opinions and perspectives as knowledge grows, especially in the digital age.

Connectivism Focuses on:

Principles of Adult Learning

Need to know: Adults must see the utility of what they're learning.Learner's self-concept: Adults prefer control over their learning.Role of experiences: Adults bring diverse backgrounds, making individualized teaching important.Readiness to learn: Adult learning should align with the personal/work stage.Orientation to learning: Adults learn best when the material is applied to real life.Motivation: Adults are driven by internal factors, while children are more influenced by external factors.

Role of Memory

Adult Learning Theory

Memory is crucial in adult learning theory, shaping how knowledge is acquired and used. Prior knowledge influences learning experiences, while memory aids problem-solving and information retention. Understanding memory's role helps educators create effective adult learning experiences by relating new information to existing knowledge and leveraging memory capabilities. Adults face additional concerns as they age, which results in memory decay and retrieval issues.

Types of Learning

Andragogy is more suitable for highly self-motivated individuals enrolled in a goal-oriented and structured program or focused on learning problem-solving skills.

How learning Occurs

Effective teachers ensure adults understand the purpose behind learning new skills. Instead of focusing on memorization, they engage adults in tasks they can actively perform. By involving learners in solving real-life problems, instruction becomes more effective as adults are natural problem-solvers who thrive when the subject matter is immediately applicable.