There is no specific definition for learning. Learning occurs when there is a change is learners’ packets of knowledge (Schemata). A learning process is dependent on several factors including environmental and cognitive aspects. Many learning theorists analyzed the learning process from varied perspectives and define learning based on their own perception. Learning theory describes how people learn, and the process of learning in order to help educators structure the teaching process that best suits a learner. With learning theories, the dominant frameworks are behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and more recently connectivism. Cognitivism focuses on the internal mental activities, and explores the mental processes such as thinking, memory, remembering, problem-solving in gaining knowledge. It looks beyond human respond to stimuli and learning is brain-based. According to Bill Kerr, what should we do about these isms as they keep evolving and do not stand still? In 1960s, the cognitivist revolution replaced behaviorism as the prevailing model, now in the 21st century, alternative models keep evolving. It is said that the connectivism is the learning theory for the digital age. What would be the next …ism? Learning through action and performance based on instruction (Behaviorism), moving to the level of comprehension inclusive of thinking, knowing and remembering (Cognitivism), creating new knowledge (Constructivism) and uniting the creative ideas (Connectivism) to form the next… ism.
The underlining factor is that we cannot do without any of these learning theories nor can a single theory thrives in a learning environment. Kapp in his blog post says “we need to take pieces from each school of thought and apply it effectively”. With the emergence of newer technologies, the learning process would continually be enhanced. For learning to be effective, the use a learning theory that best suits the learning environment is important.
You make a very good point that the learning environment is an important piece of learning not to be overlooked. The environment that educators create should consider theory and the combination that best suites the learner. Great Post
ReplyDeleteLearning is very important because it enables us to acquire new knowledge and skills that we can use for any reason. It is the responsiblity of educators to teach children new knowledge and new skills so learning theories are important because they provide educators with what type of learning or instructional strategy to use to address each child' learning style. Cognitivism main focus is the use of the human brain for memory (sensory, long-term and short-term), solving problems and thinking.
ReplyDeleteMarion Bush