An introduction to learning theories

1. LEARNING THEORIES
BEHAVIORISM, COGNITIVISM, CONSTRUCTIVISM

2. Background Information
 Learning theories allow teachers to better understand
the process of learning.
 Together with the use of technology, learn theories
have made a significant impact in the classroom.
 There are many learning paradigms, however,
behaviorism, cognitivism and constructivism will be the
focus for this lesson.

3. Behaviorism
 The theory originates from the works of Ivan Pavlov’s, classical
conditioning, and B. F. Skinner’s, operant conditioning.
 Classical Conditioning is when an unconditioned stimulus and
response is manipulated with a conditioned stimulus to create a
conditioned response.
 Operant Conditioning is a controlled response with a reward/
punishment system according to the behavior.
 The learner needs reinforcements to keep interest.
 Stimuli are effective in controlling behavior.
 As a result, the behaviors can be measured to record learning success.

4. Research task
 Identify a theorist for each form of
behaviourism and outline the characteristics
of that approach.
 Can you relate this to personal experience?
 Do you agree with this approach?

5. Cognitivism
 Information Processing looks at how information is retrieved and
stored.
 This theory focuses on how to store and retrieve information.
 Learning is attained through rehearsal and consistent use of the
information.
 Retention strategies such as breaking down information and
comparing the information to long term storage are great techniques.

6. Research task
 Identify a theorist for that advocates the
Cognitivist approach and outline the
characteristics of that approach.
 Can you relate this to personal
experience?
 Do you agree with this approach?

7. Constructivism
 Constructivism views learning as a process in which the learner
constructs knowledge based on their past experiences.
 The teacher only acts as a facilitator who encourages students to
explore within a given framework.
Learners may collaborate with others
to organize their ideas and learn from
each other to construct their own
knowledge.

8. Research task
 Identify a theorist for that advocates the
Constructivist approach and outline the
characteristics of that approach.
 Can you relate this to personal experience?
 Do you agree with this approach?

9. Putting It All Together
Learning Theory Learning Process Technology Support
Behaviorism
Through positive/
negative
reinforcement and
punishment
Educational software
can be used to
measure the students
assessment
Cognitivism
Rehearsing
information and then
storing it for long term
use
Flashcards and
memory games can
help retain information
taught in a lesson
Constructivism
Constructing ones
own knowledge
through past
experiences and
group collaboration
Group PowerPoint
projects allow students
to work together and
combine their
knowledge to learn

10. Web Resources
 Behavioral Learning Theory
 http://suedstudent.syr.edu/~ebarrett/ide621/behavior.htm
 Cognitivism Learning Theory
 http://web.syr.edu/~walker/COGNITIVISMTHEORIES.htm
 Constructivism Learning Theory
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learning_theories