LEARNING THEORIES

BEHAVIORISM, COGNITIVISM, CONSTRUCTIVISM

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.

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.

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.

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.

Putting It All TogetherLearning 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

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