Learning Theories

Nina P. Driaza

Sect. 5552

Outline

Behaviorism

Cognitivism

Constructivism

Behaviorism http://web.cocc.

edu/cbuell/theories/behaviorism.htm

Definition:“study of behavior as related to stimulus and response, and the consequences associated with it.”

B.F. Skinner:• “Learning is a function of

change in behavior”• Changes in behavior →

individual’s response to stimuli.

• Stimulus-Response (S-R) pattern

• Reinforcement is the key

Principles of Skinner’s theory:

1. Behavior that receives positive reinforcement will be repeated.

2. Presentation of small amounts of information aids reinforcement.

3. Reinforcements will “generalize across stimuli producing secondary conditioning.”

Cognitivism http://web.cocc.

edu/cbuell/theories/cognitivism.htm

Definition:the study of cognition- mental activity.

“Learning is a mental process.”

G. Miller:• Chunking & short term

memory• TOTE (Test-Operate-Test-

Exit)

Principles of Miller’s theory:

1. Short term memory is limited to 7 chunks of information.

2. Planning (TOTE) is a “fundamental cognitive process.”

3. Behavior is organized hierarchically.

Constructivism http://web.cocc.

edu/cbuell/theories/constructivism.htm

Definition: “study of learning as a process in which learners construct new ideas or concepts based upon current and past knowledge.”

J. Bruner:• 4 aspects of instruction-

• Predisposition towards learning• Structure of information easiest

to grasp by learner• Most effective sequence to

present material• Nature and pacing of rewards

and punishment

Principles of Bruner’s theory:

1. Instruction must make the student willing and able to learn.

2. Instruction must be structured to be grasped easily by student.

3. Instruction must “facilitate extrapolation and/or fill in the gaps.”

Compare & Contrast

Learning Theory

Behaviorism Cognitivism Constructivism

How people learn

Learning is a function of change in behavior

Learning is a mental process

Learning involves constructing one's own knowledge from one's own experiences

How technology is used in learning

Teaching machines, instructional films and TV, programmed instruction, instructional design, & direct instruction

Simulations, artificial intelligence, expert systems, intelligent tutorial systems, & virtual reality

Productivity tools, concept maps, hypermedia, & conversation tools