Destiney Swain-Learning Theories Part 2

Sociocultural Theory

• Major Theorist: Lev Vygotsky
• Major Characteristics: Lev Vygotsky's sociocultural theory posits that learning is inherently social and cultural. It highlights the importance of the social environment in cognitive development. The concept of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) emphasizes the range of tasks a learner can perform with assistance but cannot do alone. Language is a central tool for thought and plays a crucial role in learning.
• Role of Memory: In sociocultural theory, memory is considered a dynamic, socially mediated process. It is shaped by cultural tools, language, and social interactions. Vygotsky argued that memory is not only an individual cognitive function but is distributed across the social and cultural context.
• How Learning Occurs: Learning occurs through collaboration, social interaction, and participation in cultural practices. Vygotsky suggested that individuals learn from more knowledgeable peers or adults, leading to the internalization of cultural knowledge and skills.
• Types of Learning: Sociocultural theory is particularly applicable to collaborative learning, apprenticeships, and situations where learners engage in meaningful activities within their social and cultural context. It is often used to understand how cultural factors influence cognitive development.

Adult Learning Theory

• Major Theorists: Malcolm Knowles, Andragogy; Jack Mezirow, Transformative Learning
• Major Characteristics: Adult learning theory, or Andragogy, is based on the assumptions that adult learners are self-directed, have accumulated life experiences, and are motivated by practical goals. Malcolm Knowles and Jack Mezirow are associated with different aspects of this theory. Transformative learning, proposed by Mezirow, focuses on shifts in perspective and personal transformation.
• Role of Memory: Memory in adult learning is viewed as a repository of experiences and prior knowledge. Adults draw upon their existing knowledge base, and learning often involves reflecting on and integrating new information with their past experiences.
• How Learning Occurs: Learning occurs through active participation, self-directed exploration, and reflection on personal experiences. Adult learners are motivated by the relevance of the learning content to their lives and are more likely to be engaged when they see the practical applicability of the knowledge.
• Types of Learning: Adult learning theory is applicable to situations where learners are self-directed, have a wealth of life experiences, and seek practical, problem-centered learning. It is often employed in professional development, continuing education, and workplace training contexts, where learners bring diverse experiences and knowledge to the learning environment. Learning, as it progresses, crystallizes into dependable truths that streamline decision-making or action-taking, leading to the development of habitual learning, while generative knowing, an evolving theory of adult learning, aims to unveil undiscovered potential within the depth of experience (Loveless et al., 2023).

Connectivism

• Major Theorist: George Siemens
• Major Characteristics: Connectivism acknowledges the transformative impact of technology on learning. It emphasizes the need for learners to navigate networks, make connections, and access information effectively rather than memorizing facts. George Siemens introduced the concept, highlighting the role of digital tools and the distributed nature of knowledge.
• Role of Memory: Connectivism challenges traditional views of memory by suggesting that memory is distributed across networks. It's not about memorizing information but about knowing where and how to find relevant information when needed. "All one has to do is look at any of a host of new apps or web-based software to see this principle of the Connectivism Theory at play. The ability to connect data and information sources and make meaning from that data is what it means to learn in the information world" (Utecht et al., 2019).
• How Learning Occurs: Learning occurs through the creation and navigation of networks. Learners are encouraged to cultivate their Personal Learning Networks (PLNs) and stay connected to diverse sources of information. Adaptability and the ability to filter and synthesize information are crucial skills.
• Types of Learning: Connectivism is relevant in digital environments, online communities, and situations where the emphasis is on networked learning. It is particularly suited to understanding how individuals learn in the information age and how they can stay connected to stay informed.