Learning Thoeries

Constructivism

Behaviorism

Cognitivism

By: Kimberly Magana

Learning Theories

Role of Memory

Major Theorist

Types of Learning and How it Occurs

Behaviorism is a foundational learning theory that emphasizes the study of observable behaviors. It emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction to introspective psychology and focuses primarily on how the environment shapes behavior. Behaviorists argue that learning is a result of conditioning, where actions are either reinforced or discouraged based on their outcomes.

Behaviorism

Role of Memory

Major Theorist

Types of Learning and How it Occurs

Cognitivism emerged as a response to behaviorism, focusing on the mental processes involved in learning rather than observable behavior. This theory posits that the human mind works like a computer, processing, storing, and retrieving information. Cognitivism highlights the importance of internal cognitive processes in learning.

Cognitivism

Role of Memory

Major Theorist

Types of Learning and How it Occurs

Constructivism builds on the idea that learners actively construct their knowledge by interacting with the world around them. It shifts the focus from passive absorption of information to active engagement, where learners make sense of new experiences based on their existing knowledge. Constructivism emphasizes the importance of context and social interactions in the learning process.

Constructivism

References: Ormrod, J. E. (2020). Human learning (8th ed.). Pearson. Piaget, J. (1971). Psychology and epistemology: Towards a theory of knowledge. Grossman. Schunk, D. H. (2012). Learning theories: An educational perspective (6th ed.). Pearson Education. Skinner, B. F. (1974). About behaviorism. Alfred A. Knopf. Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

B.F. Skinner

Behaviorism is primarily associated with B.F. Skinner and John Watson. This theory stresses that behavior is learned through interactions with the environment, where stimuli trigger responses, and reinforcement strengthens behaviors (Schunk, 2012). The theory disregards mental processes and focuses solely on observable actions.

Major Theorist and Characteristics

In behaviorism, memory is not emphasized; learning is viewed as a change in behavior due to repeated exposure to stimuli and reinforcement (Skinner, 1974). Behaviorists focus on the external consequences of actions rather than internal cognitive mechanisms.

Role of Memory

Learning occurs through conditioning—either classical or operant—where reinforcement encourages specific behaviors, and punishment reduces undesired actions (Ormrod, 2020). Behaviorism is best suited for explaining learning that involves skill acquisition and habit formation, such as learning routines or specific behaviors through repetition (Schunk, 2012).

How Learning Occurs and Types of Learning

Memory is central to cognitivism, as learning involves encoding new information, storing it in long-term memory, and retrieving it as needed (Piaget, 1971). Cognitive theorists emphasize the importance of organized memory systems, such as schemas, to explain how knowledge is structured.

Role of Memory

Jean Piaget and Jerome Bruner are major theorists in the development of cognitivism. This theory emphasizes how learners actively process and organize information to create meaningful connections (Schunk, 2012). It recognizes the importance of prior knowledge and mental structures in guiding how new information is learned.

Major Theorist and Characteristics

How Learning Occurs and Types of Learning

Learning occurs when individuals process information, apply reasoning, and reorganize knowledge to make sense of new information (Ormrod, 2020). Cognitivism is especially effective in explaining problem-solving, critical thinking, and comprehension of complex concepts, making it ideal for explaining higher-order cognitive skills (Schunk, 2012).

How Learning Occurs and Types of Learning

Learning occurs when learners engage with their environment, reflect on their experiences, and collaborate with others (Schunk, 2012). Constructivism is particularly effective in inquiry-based learning, problem-solving, and social learning, where students learn through active discovery and collaboration (Vygotsky, 1978).

Lev Vygotsky and Jean Piaget are the major theorists behind constructivism. Vygotsky’s social constructivism highlights the role of social interaction in learning, while Piaget’s theory focuses on how learners build knowledge through active exploration (Vygotsky, 1978). Constructivism argues that learning is personal and context-specific, shaped by individual experiences.

Major Theorist and Characteristics

Memory in constructivism is seen as a dynamic process in which learners use prior knowledge to interpret new experiences (Ormrod, 2020). Rather than merely storing information, memory is about actively constructing meaning based on past and current experiences.

Role of Memory