Presented By Elvira Granado

The following is an overview on two learning theories, Behaviorism and Cognitivism, which have structured the way learning takes place. The most influential leaders in the development of learning, are Behaviorist, B.F. Skinner and Cognitivist, Jean Piaget. Through their research and analysis on how learning take place, they developed concepts and ideas that are widely modeled after. These ideas and concepts are the stepping stones that altered the field adult education, training, and instruction.

Behaviorism is a theory based on observables changes that focuses on new behavior patterns thru structure and repetition. This process focus on the response of the participant, prompt by an external stimuli and disregards any mental perception. These patterns of behavior are then measured to determine a final outcome.(A,2) Behaviorist conclude that this takes place by a conditioning element that the participant’s response to. Behaviorist determine this by identifying two different types of Conditioning; Classic and Operant conditioning. Classic conditioning occurs when a voluntary reflex responds to a stimulus. Operant conditioning occurs when a responds to a stimulus is reinforced.(A,2) One of the most influential leader of the theory was B.F. Skinner.

Burrhus Frederic Skinner (March 20, 1904-August 18, 1990) was one of the most influential American psychologist, who contribute to the development of the Behaviorism theory. He received a PhD from Harvard in His main work concentrated on behavior analysis and the invention of the operant conditioning chamber.(S,1).

Skinner, developed a series experiments that focus on animals and human behavior. He invented the operant conditioning or better known as the Skinner box- a research tool that he developed to examine behavior in relation to the environment. One of his well known experiments was the Baby Box that he developed in order to mechanize the care of a child. This box would maintain temperature of the baby allowing them to only wear a diaper.(BFS,1) The Air Crib

Skinner’s Theory: The air crib was one of his more controversial invention, and was popularly mischaracterized as cruel and experimental.(W,5) He concluded that the use of reinforcement techniques could alter the participant’s response. Derived from Behaviorist, Pavlov’s experiments of dogs, Skinner elaborated his analysis on applying reinforcement after a participants response. His theory prove him right, Skinner was able to influence both education and as well as psychology. For example the concept of positive reinforcement. He strongly believe that thru positive reinforcement you could alter/modify learners response.

Cognitivism is the study of active mental process inside the learner’s mind. Its is based on the thought process behind the behavior. This acquired knowledge is formed by abstract symbolism transformed into mental pictures. These mental pictures are then embedded into our memory that help develop the learning process. This approach identifies learners as active participants, constantly structuring new information, ideas, and concepts. Although Cognitive Psychology emerged in the late 1950’s and began to take over as the dominant theory of learning, it wasn’t until the late 19070’s that cognitive science began to have its influence on instructional design. One of the most influential leader in the theory of Cognitive Development was Jean Piaget.

Jean Piaget (August 9, 1896-September 17, 1980) was an influential experimenter and theorists in the field of child psychology and in the study of human learning. By age 22, he received his Ph.D. in Science.(P,4) Jean Piaget

Piaget first began his analysis through his own children. Through these observations, he determined; cognitive development takes in a sequential order. More importantly, the development took place in children thru imitation and play. Piaget’s Theory

Today, his theory of cognitive development is used in many of the preschool and primary settings. Children in these setting are encourage through self- discovery and challenge them to try new ideas and concepts. The Cognitivism plays a major role in the areas of teaching and training. It is fundamental that instruction is geared to incorporate dynamics that promote cognitive development. Trainers /facilitators must have an good understanding of learning domains. Instructional designers must take into consideration this domain before developing an instruction.

CognitiveAffectivePsychomotor Cognitive Domain thinking skills, and learning abilities Affective Domain Our attitudes towards learning. Psychomotor Domain Motor skills, fine motor, and writing.

Piaget through his observations, concluded that human learning did not only occurred by conditioning behaviors,but that also a mental process took place. Behaviorism and Cognitivism have contributed to the understanding of how humans act, think,and apply knowledge. This brought the need to understand how learning takes place and how it impacts teaching and training.

When designing an instruction for an adult education environment, several factors need to taken into consideration as well. For example, in teaching a new concept or skill, several key factors come into question. What prior knowledge do the learners already have ? What new skill or procedure must the learner accomplish? Based on this information the trainer/facilitator will be able to develop an instruction.

Conclusion Instructors must have a background knowledge on the learners abilities, limitations and aptitude towards learning. This will help determine the type of instruction to designed and implement. The learner’s ability, prior knowledge, and motivation,must be taken into consideration to develop an effective instructional training.

References Senson, C.(May 1999)Burrhus Frederick Skinner.[On-line]. Available: http// ~psych/psyche/history/skinner.htm. Abbamondi, Dina, understanding-Behaviorism(15 August2004). [On- line]Avaliable: learning/behavior/htm. Mergel, B.(May 1998) Instructional Design& Learning Theory.[Online] Available: http: //wwwusk.ca/education/coursework/802papers/mergel/ brenda.htm. Prsenell, Faith (May 1999) Jean Piaget.[On-line]. Psycweb.history/piaget.htm.