Learning Theories

 

I

Unit: Teaching

Theme: Learning Theories

 

Introduction

Learning theories describe how students receive, process, and retain knowledge during learning. Cognitive, emotional, and environmental influences, as well as prior experience, all play a part in teaching and learning. Understanding, developing our world view, acquiring or changing information, acknowledging and retaining skills are all part of Western learning tradition and theories. 

 

II

Learning Objectives 

 

• Understand how learning theories have changed from anicent times to the present
  
• Explain the differences betweeen early philosophers and contemporary theorists who wrote about education
  
• Gain an awareness of thedifferent learning theories
• Experience the articulation of your own learning theory
  

III

Main Lesson

 

1

 

 https://youtu.be/w46bWxS9IjY

Question 1

What do you think is the message in this video?

Why don't we say, I ..... with all my brain?

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 2

Western Ideas about Education

 

a)

Classical Period

 Plato

 

"Dialogues of Plato" offers a philosophy that has guided man through the ages. In his magnificent writings, Plato examines our virtues and vices, our problems and questions. With remarkable literary grace, he shows us how man can understand his place in the world and live an intelligent and happy life. He thought of education as a way to form the soul.

 Dialogues of Plato

(Page 232)

 https://www.google.com/books/edition/Dialogues_of_Plato/eNYX8vXxd4YC?hl=en&gbpv=1&bsq=education

Jowett, B. (1871). The Dialogues of Plato. The Clarendon Press 

 

 

b)

 

 Medieval Period

St. Augustine

 

Like most ancient philosophers, Augustine thinks that the human being is a compound of body and soul and that, within this compound, the soul—conceived as both the life-giving element and the center of consciousness, perception and thought—is, or ought to be, the ruling part.

Happiness and Wisdom 

(Pages 7 - 8)

https://www.google.com/books/edition/Happiness_and_Wisdom/EtOs1OMaEB0C?hl=en&gbpv=1&bsq=%20Education 

Topping, Ryan N.S. (2012). Happiness and Wisdom: Augustine's Early Theology of Education. The Catholic University of America Press

 

 

c)

 Enlightenment

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Jean-Jacques Rousseau was a Genevan philosopher, writer, and composer. His political philosophy influenced the progress of the Age of Enlightenment throughout Europe, as well as aspects of the French Revolution and the development of modern political, economic, and educational thought.

Emile: Or, Concerning Education

https://www.google.com/books/edition/%C3%89mile/E8ZEAAAAIAAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&bsq=Education

(Page 87 - last paragraph to 88 2nd paragraph)

Rousseau, J.J. (1888). Emile: Or, Concerning Education. D.C. Heath & Co., Publishers

d)

Elightenment

Immanuel Kant

Immanuel Kant was a German philosopher and one of the central Enlightenment thinkers. Born in Königsberg, Kant's comprehensive and systematic works in epistemology, metaphysics, ethics, and aesthetics have made him one of the most influential figures in modern Western philosophy.

 

The Educational Theory of Immanuel Kant 

https://www.google.com/books/edition/Educational_theory_of_Immanuel_Kant/FBUSAwAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=Kant+on+Education&printsec=frontcover

(Page 108 3rd line to 109 end of item 7) 

Kant, I. (1904). The Educational Theory of Immanuel Kant. J.B. Lippincott Company

 

Question 2

What was the main purpose of education for these early philosophers?

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 3

 

 LEARNING THEORIES

Today we will introduce the different learning theories used in most educational systems around the world. Please, watch the video below and move the discussion forward by answering to  the following questions:

a)

A brief introduction to Learning Theories

Question 3

What are learning theories?

--------------------------- 

 

b)

 
The 5 Educational Learning Theories

1. Behaviorism: Behaviorism is using reinforcement and punishment techniques to encourage or discourage certain behaviors. The environment around us shapes us because we are blank slates and so the behaviors of others can influence our behaviors as well. We can be conditioned to follow certain behavior patterns by the people around us. An example can be rats who push the lever every time they get food and then keep continuing that behavior of pushing the lever to get more food. Their behavior of pushing the lever has been conditioned by behaviorism. 

2. Cognitivism: Cognitivism focuses more on the mind and the thinking process through reading texts and lecture instructions. People who learn this way are often thought as information processors. People are rational human beings whose actions are consequences of thinking. It focuses on the processes of mental activities like thinking, memory, knowing, and problem solving. Schema theory is using your own knowledge to further your learning, sort of like a Black Box on an airplane.

3. Constructivism:  Constructivism is a theory in education that recognizes the learners' understanding and knowledge based on their own experiences prior to entering school. It is associated with various philosophical positions, particularly in epistemology as well as ontology, politics, and ethics. It is based on the idea that people are responsible in creating their own understanding of the world by using what they know based on previous experiences in the process of linking new information to these experiences. People use these experiences and new information to construct their own meaning. 

4. Humanism:Humanism is when someone is trying to be a complete person. To do that, one must achieve the tiers of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs which is separated into three categories: basic needs, psychological needs, and self-fulfillment. The goal is to cultivate a person as a whole and create the most optimal self. A person must gradually ascend the humanistic needs based on a hierarchy to reach their peek potential. Humanism emphasizes the individual’s values, motivations, and goals. Humanistic theory has the basic assumption that people exist with free will and the ability to influence their lives through acts of intentionality. 

5. Connectivism: Connectivism is a theoretical framework for understanding learning in a digital age. It emphasizes how internet technologies such as web browsers, search engines, wikis, online discussion forums, and social networks contributed to new avenues of learning.  Today we live in the social media world with a lot of technology at our disposal. It is very easy to connect all around the world and find new resources and information about any subject. Everyone of all ages can easily connect with the technology at our hands. 

 

 Question 4

Which learning theory do you identify with the most. Explain

 

c)

 

 Other theories:

 
15 Learning Theories in Education (A Complete Summary)

 

d)

 

Developmental Theories

• Hierarchy of Needs - Maslow
• 
  
• Multiple Intelligences - Gardner
• 
  
• Theory of Cognitive Development - Piaget
• 
  
• Zone of Proximal Development _ Vygotsky
• 
  
• Progressive Education (Learning By Doing) - Dewey
• 
  
• Montessori Theory of Teaching (Child chooses what to learn) - Montessori
• 
  
• Theory of Psychological Development - Erickson
  

  Erik Erikson was an ego psychologist who developed one of the most popular and influential theories of development. While his theory was impacted by psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud's work, Erikson's theory centered on psychosocial development rather than psychosexual development.

  The stages that make up his theory are as follows:
• Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy from birth to 18 months)
• Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Toddler years from 18 months to three years)
• Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool years from three to five)
• Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority (Middle school years from six to 11)
• Stage 5: Identity vs. Confusion (Teen years from 12 to 18)
• Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young adult years from 18 to 40)
• Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle age from 40 to 65)
• Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair (Older adulthood from 65 to death)
• LINK: https://www.verywellmind.com/erik-eriksons-stages-of-psychosocial-development-2795740
  

" I think it is important to understand that there is not one correct, or "right" theory of learning. All of them are good." Patricia Victor

Question 5

Given the nature of the theories listed above; how would you make them work in a dance/movement learning environment?

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 IV

 

A Note to Remember 

 

 There are three main categories of learning theories, behaviourism, cognitivism, and constructivism. Behaviourism is concerned with observable behaviour; it classified learning as acquiring new behaviour based on environment. Cognitivism basically is concern with person thinking process. Constructivism is a theory in education which posits that individuals or learners acquire knowledge and understanding by actively perceiving it within a direct process of knowledge transmission.

 

V

 

Case Studies

Watch the following videos to complement the concepts explained above. Just watch enough to understand the main point. 

 

1

BEHAVIORISM

 B.F. Skinner

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2

COGNITIVISM & Constructivism

 Jean Piaget

Cognitivist theory developed as a reaction to Behaviorism and gained credence in the 1950s. Cognitivists objected to behaviorists because they felt that behaviorists thought learning was simply a reaction to a stimulus and ignored the idea that thinking plays an important role. Although many researchers contributed to the development of the learning theory (e.g. Bruner, Vygotsky, Bloom, Ausubel), Piaget’s views had a tremendous impact. Spurred by the work of Piaget (Constructivism), knowledge is viewed as symbolic mental constructs, or schemata. When a learners' schemata are changed, learning takes place. As neuroscientists continue to discover more about how the brain works, cognitive psychologists and educators are concerned with how to use that knowledge in the classroom.

Source: https://www.open.edu/openlearncreate/mod/page/view.php?id=147079

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3

CONSTRUCTIVISM

Jim Applegate, Jesse Delia, Brant Burleson

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4

HUMANISM

Abraham Maslow

 

 https://youtu.be/LUAie--dGh0

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5

 

CONECTIVISM

George Siemens

 

Question 6

 

After watching the explanations of the different theories, do you still identify with the same theory? Explain why.

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 VI

 

 

Discussion Questions

Answer the following questions; please be succinct:

Which of these theories do you identify with? Explain

Which theory do you dislike most? Why?

Which of these theories has been used by our American educational system at large? 

 

Which theory was used in your school district during your elementary and secondary education? Explain.

If you were to articulate and propose your own educational theory how would you call it? Explain the main ideas related to your own theory.  

How would you implement your theory in your own classroom?

Which theory is the most compatible with the idea of using the arts as a means to teach academics? Why?

VII

 Activity 2

 

Gather in groups; each group will choose a learning theory to discuss. Using the summaries, prompt questions and videos provided agree on creating your own group theory. Your group will articulate the theory and post it on Discussion Board.

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VIII

Journaling

IX

Glossary

X

Sources

XI

 Students' Work

 

Newly Created Theories

1

Well-roundedism

 Nydia Kyriakopoulo, Nick DiAmbrosio, Marina Tischenkel, Abby Gendell 

 

Our theory: Well-roundedism-  A mixture of construcitvism, humanism, and connectivism makes for the most efficient style of teaching. From constructivism we would use the idea of prior knowledges to show how that affects your future education. Humanism cultivates a person as a whole and creates the most optimal self. Lastly, connectivism allows technology to enhance the educational experience. We would keep each of these in mind to promote a well-rounded education for each student. 

We would implement this by keeping a structure but implement moving dialogue and the use of non conventional teaching methods to promote individuality. 

 

2

Small Moments Matter Theory

 Grace Lopez, Alex Trombley, Antonio Tripp, Jared Harrison-Hunte, Ajay Allen , Jaleel Skinner

Our theory is that everything we learn in life, no matter how big or small, is useful to us in one way or another. Our actions and influences lead to our futures and the life we will have in the future. It is important to instill positive influences and learning in our school environments to create positive learning environments and lasting impacts on students. 

 

 

3

 

 Funnism

 

Lana  Nesheiwat, Meghan Warshauer, Brady Wisdom, Sebastian Chin

- Fun theory and the main idea is fun is the root of education and if students are not enjoying the activities then they are not learning. Recess would be most of the day.

- Our class would focus on fun, enthusiastic activities that involves creativity, imagination and art. More recess!!

- Plato's theory is most compatible as he believed in the two laws of love needing to be fulfilled while education, and how a good artist is needed. He claimed art was needed over tradition, such as added gymnastic for the body and music for the soul. 

4

 Considerism 

 Carlota Cardenal Kuhl, Luke Teban, Logan Bright, Albion Shala 

 

The foundation of our theory is guided freedom - allowing students to explore their different options of learning, while still leading them on the right track and maintaining group expectations.

5

Digital Constructivism

 Jake Irrgang, Duke Wyler, Ethan Ruga, Benny Feuer, Alex Fishbone

 

Our theory would be called digital constructivism. Our theory would combine connectivism and constructivism. We have grown up in a digital word so we believe it is important social media into the learning process. While there are some downsides to social media, there are far more benefits to it if used correctly. We also believe that constructivism is important and learners need to able to create their own knowledge. If they are having their hands held throughout the entire learning process, they will never learn how to become independent and form their own thoughts and knowledge. Our theory would be taught in elementary education as younger students will be able to learn how to use social media effectively and safely at a young age. We would implement this in the classroom by giving students a task with hints on how to do it but having the main objection being to use social media and figure out how to do it themselves. 

6

Expressionsism

Olivia Miller, Ella Li, Ellie Karofsky, Ryan Steinberg

 

Expressionism is what we would call our own theory. This would allow students to express their own ideas and become active learners. There is no one right answer and every student learns in their own ways and is able to article things differently. This theory enhcourages students to speak their minds rather than hold in their ideas. 

We would implament this with allowing students to speak up and encourage learing from others answers. Addtionally, like we do in this class, allow for students to learn in their own ways. Professor explained how even if students are on their phone multi-tasking, this shouldnt be punished, it should be allowed and encouraged. 

This is most similar to constructivism because it is based on our own experiences and understandings. This allows students to use their past knowledge and understanding in order to further and foster new information and learing.

MAKE UP

 

Rudolph Stonisch

My belief is that every piece of knowledge, whether significant or minor, holds value and contributes to our lives in various ways. The decisions we make and the influences we encounter shape our future paths and ultimately the lives we will lead. Therefore, it's crucial to foster positive influences and educational experiences within our schools, as this not only creates a conducive learning atmosphere but also leaves a lasting, beneficial impact on students.

 

 Alessandra Diamon

"Holistic Growth Theory," blends the ideals of enlightenment and humanism, emphasizing the power of education to uplift individuals while nurturing their unique talents and perspectives. Drawing inspiration from Plato's emphasis on artistic creativity and the importance of enjoyable learning experiences, this approach integrates technology and interactive methods to engage students fully. It celebrates the individual's journey, valuing both academic growth and personal development, ensuring that education is not only about knowledge acquisition but also about fostering well-being and self-expression. My classroom would be a vibrant space of inquiry, artistry, and fun, where every student's potential is recognized and cultivated.

 

Xinyi Nong

 

My favorite is the cognitivist learning theory: students play an active role in learning by thinking and solving problems, and emphasizes the thinking process, how to solve problems, reasoning, decision-making and memory, emphasizing problem-solving skills and creative thinking. Help students better adapt to different learning and living environments.

 

Garrett Francis

I embrace Humanism because it encapsulates the pursuit of becoming a well-rounded individual. Humanism guides one towards achieving their highest potential. Central to Humanism is the emphasis on individual values, motivations, and goals. This philosophical approach operates on the fundamental belief in human agency—acknowledging our capacity for free will and intentional actions that shape our lives. For me, Humanism offers a framework that aligns with the inherent drive to be the best version of oneself, fostering personal growth and fulfillment in life.

 

Joel Keller

 

I think that all knowledge is valuable and makes a difference in our life. Our entire life is shaped based off the knowledge that we are passed down from out parents, learn through our schools, and learn through our own life lessons. The lessons our parents teach us strongly dictate the choices that we make as young adults, and as we age we learn more and more from our own experiences. All of which help to shape our life. Knowledge is incredibly valuable and the lessons that are taught to young adults will help shape their paths.  As a result, it's critical to promote positive influences and educational opportunities in our schools because doing so not only fosters a supportive learning environment but also has a long-lasting, positive effect on students.