Arellano-EDU 522 Learning Theories 2

Learning Theories Part 2

References

Angelica Arellano Grand Canyon University EDU 522-O500: Curriculum Design Theories Dr. Lorry Redditt August 21, 2024

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Learning Theories

Adult Learning Theory

Connectivism

Sociocultural

Major Theorist

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Socialcultural Theory

Major Theorist:

• Lev Vygotsky

Major Characteristics:

• Emphasizes the importance of social interaction and cultural context in cognitive development.
• Introduced the concept of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), which describes the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance from more knowledgeable others (Vygotsky, 1978).

Role of Memory:

• Memory is seen as a socially mediated process. Cognitive development is influenced by cultural tools (e.g., language, symbols) and social interactions (Vygotsky, 1978).

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Connectivism Theory

Major Theorist:

• George Siemens

Major Characteristics:

• Focuses on learning in the digital age where knowledge is distributed across networks.
• Emphasizes the role of connections and networked learning, with learning being a process of making and managing connections between sources of information (Siemens, 2005).

Role of Memory:

• Memory is distributed across networks. The ability to connect and retrieve information from various sources is crucial, and knowledge is seen as being in the network rather than within an individual (Siemens, 2005).

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Adult Learning Theory

Major Theorist:

• Malcolm Knowles

Major Characteristics:

• Focuses on how adults learn differently from children, emphasizing self-directed learning and practical application.
• Key principles include readiness to learn, orientation to learning, and the need for immediate application of knowledge (Knowles, 1975).

Role of Memory:

• Memory in adult learning is influenced by past experiences and the practical application of new knowledge. Adults build on their existing knowledge base and apply new information to real-life situations (Knowles, 1975).

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Major Theorist

Malcolm Knowles

Lev Vygotsky

George Siemens

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References

Knowles, M. (1975). Self-directed learning: A guide for learners and teachers. Association Press. Loveles, B. (2023, April 14). 15 learning theories in education (A complete summary). Education Corner. https://www.educationcorner.com/learning-theories-in-education/ Siemens, G. (2005). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning, 2(1), 3-10. Retrieved from https://www.elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

We will learn no matter what! Learning is as natural as rest or play. With or without books, inspiring trainers or classrooms, we will manage to learn. Educators can, however, make a difference in what people learn and how well they learn it. If we know why we are learning and if the reason fits our needs as we perceive them, we will learn quickly and deeply.

Malcolm Knowles

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Sociocultural Theory

Lev Vygotsky (1896–1934) was a Soviet psychologist known for his work on cognitive development. Contributions: Sociocultural Theory: Emphasized that cognitive development is deeply influenced by social interactions and cultural context. Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): Introduced the concept of ZPD, which describes the range of tasks a learner can perform with guidance but cannot yet do independently. Scaffolding: Highlighted how support from more knowledgeable others helps learners achieve tasks within their ZPD. Impact: Vygotsky’s work transformed our understanding of how social and cultural factors shape cognitive development and learning. (Vygotsky, 1978)

Connectivism

George Siemens (born 1969) is a Canadian theorist who developed connectivism. Contributions: Proposed that learning occurs through networks of information and connections rather than being contained within an individual. Networked Learning: Emphasized the importance of forming and managing connections between various information sources in the digital age. Impact: Siemens’ theory addresses learning in a digital world, highlighting how technology and networked environments facilitate knowledge acquisition. (Siemens, 2005)

Learning

How Learning Occurs: Learning occurs through real-life experiences, problem-solving, and reflection on practical applications of knowledge. Adults engage in learning that is immediately applicable to their personal or professional lives (Knowles, 1975). Types of Learning: Best explains experiential learning and self-directed learning.

Learning

How Learning Occurs: Learning occurs through creating and navigating connections between diverse information sources. Learners manage and leverage these connections to access and utilize knowledge (Siemens, 2005). Types of Learning: Best explains networked learning and learning from diverse sources.

Adult Learning Theory

Malcolm Knowles (1913–1997) was an American educator renowned for his work in adult education. Contributions: Introduced the theory of andragogy, which focuses on the unique aspects of adult learning, such as self-direction and practical application. Principles: Highlighted principles like readiness to learn, orientation to learning, and immediate application of knowledge. Impact: Knowles’ theory reshaped how adult education is approached, emphasizing the importance of self-directed and experiential learning. (Knowles, 1975)

Learning

How Learning Occurs: Learning occurs through social interaction and collaborative activities. Learners internalize knowledge and skills shared by more experienced individuals through guided participation within the ZPD (Vygotsky, 1978). Types of Learning: Best explains collaborative learning and culturally mediated learning.