Learning Theories Carl Marcelin EME 2040

Information Processing Learning Paradigms Behaviorism Information Processing Constructivism

Behaviorism Influential People on Behaviorism John B. Watson B.F. Skinner More information on Behaviorism

Situations shaping Behaviorism Positive Reinforcement: an increase in a desire behavior resulting from a stimulus Negative Reinforcement: an increase in a desired behavior resulting from a removal of the stimulus Punishment: decrease in behavior will result from undesirable consequences

Information Processing How do we retain information? Rehearsal Organization Imagery Schema More information on information processing

Criticism of Directed Instruction Students don’t learn to problem solve Learning becomes unmotivated Students don’t learn how to work cooperatively Students are unable to apply skills

Constructivism Characteristics of Constructivist Alternative Assessment Exploration Cooperative Learning More information on constructivism

Criticisms of Constructivism Teachers can’t identify individual skill level Not all topics suited for constructivist learning Skills may not transfer to practical situations

Information Processing Contrasting Theories Behaviorism Information Processing Constructivism Behavior can be modified through reinforcement, a leaner can be conditioned to do desired response Input Sensory Register Short term memory Long-term memory Humans control all knowledge in their minds by participating experiences Classical conditioning Operant conditioning Software used to correct identify weaknesses in children Visual formats promote more meaningful learning