Theory, Education, & Learning CAE 213

Theory Why study theory? The study of theory can provide a better understanding of learning which will result in better decisions regarding education.

Theory What is theory? A theory is defined as a comprehensive, coherent, and internally consistent system of ideas about a set of phenomena. Learning theory is a comprehensive, coherent, and internally consistent system of ideas about learning.

Education What is education? The term emphasizes the educator. Education is an planned activity undertaken by one or more agents designed to effect changes in knowledge, skill, and attitudes of individuals, groups, or communities. The term emphasizes the educator.

Learning What is learning? Learning emphasizes the person in whom the change occurs. Learning is the act or process by which behavioral change, knowledge, skills, and attitudes are acquired. Learning is a way to be in the world. Humans learn as they pursue goals and projects that are meaningful. The key to the problem of independent learning lies in the phrase “the learner has the need and the capacity to assume responsibility for his or her own continuing learning.”

Educational Theory (Philosophies) Theory and Philosophy Philosophies of education are interpretive theories not applicatory theories. Philosophies of education applies to the educator. Learning theories are applicatory theories that focus on application to the learners. Education Learning Educator Learner Educational Theory (Philosophies) Theory

Learning Theories Five basic learning orientations: 1. Behaviorist – Learning is a process of modifying my behavior to produce environmentally appropriate behavior 2. Cognitivist – Learning occurs as I, a thinking person, interpret data accurately to respond appropriately 3. Humanist – Learning occurs as I, along with others, exercise our freedom of choice, to influence our future 4. Social Learning – Learning occurs as I observe people and they observe me 5. Constructivist – Learning occurs as I and others construct meaning

Educational Theories (Philosophies) Analytic – ed. develops human reason Liberal – ed. conserves knowledge and society Behaviorist – ed. modifies behavior & skills Progressive – ed. broaden experience base Humanistic – ed. aids in realization of goals Radical – ed. challenges social injustice Eclectic ? – ed. is contextually determined