By: Mel Balser EME2040-5577 February 9, 206 Learning Theories By: Mel Balser EME2040-5577 February 9, 206

Constructivism Behaviorism Cognitivism Students generate their own knowledge and skills. Teachers used only to guide the student through learning at their own pace. Behavior is observed and modified based on the reaction of the student. Based on external behavior; a trial and error-type situation Information is presented to the student and processed through rehearsing, organizing, elaborating, imagining, and the formation of schemata. Based on the internal events of the student. Technology should be used as a tool for learning and not as the main part. Should foster creativity and group work. Direct instruction is generally used. For example, multi-media presentations that present the concepts that are being taught. Technology should be used to foster skills the student already has. Software used to measure students against a certain set of instruction. Technology should also develop prerequisite skills as well as simulate and demonstrate what is being taught.

Constructivism Based on the idea that people construct their own knowledge based on their experiences Children should generate their own unique versions of the knowledge and information presented to them Teachers should be used as guides, and nothing more, in helping their students learn. It is a student- centered philosophy.

Behaviorism Based on Skinner’s idea of operant conditioning that includes positive and negative reinforcement as well as punishment. Behavior can be modified using operant conditioning so that they learner is conditioned to react in a certain way to a certain action or task. A direct approach should be used; one that has set goals and objectives.

Cognitivism (a.k.a. Information Processing) Uses a computer analogy to show how the mind processes and stores information Students process information through: Rehearsal, Organizing, Elaborating, Imagery, and Schema. A teacher-centered learning technique Teachers should control all aspects of the learning environment and their teaching should be systematic and structured to best facilitate learning

Criticism of Directed Instruction: Constructivism: Students do not know how to work together, problem solve, or apply their skills The learning environment becomes irrelevant and un-motivating Constructivism: Teachers have no way of verifying a student’s skill level and, therefore, cannot figure out if they have the necessary skills to create their own knowledge Their skills may not apply to real-world situations Students may not choose the most appropriate method of learning

Web Resources Visit the following websites for more information on Constructivism Behaviorism Cognitivism A comparison of all three learning theories