Module 2 Post
Over the course of my teaching experience I have learned and tried to apply various learning theories from Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism all in the hopes of being able to reach as many students as possible. As my career progressed I came to realize that the best possible way to reach as many students as possible, I needed to incorporate the best of all learning theories as I could. In reading the two blogs in this weeks modules I can agree with Karl Kapp when he states:
" Cognitivism doesn't explain 100% how humans process information and neither does Constructivism or Behaviorism. What we need to is take the best from each philosophy and use it wisely to create solid educational experiences for our learners"
Bill Kerr in his blog also points out that the "_isms" do not stand still but are constantly involving as they are implemented by teachers across the world. An additional thought that Kerr points out is that even the origional theorists have made changes to their theories as new information is gathered.
I have found that the following websites provide helpful information regarding learning theories.
http://otec.uoregon.edu/learning_theory.htm from the OTEC on this website you will find information regarding Brain Science, Learning Styles, Learning Theories, Theories of Intelligence, General Cognitive Science.
http://www.learning-theories.com/ is a "Webliography" that provides a wealth of information regarding the most used learning theories and paradigms used in education.
References:
http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html
http://www.uleduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/
Tim,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you and Karl Kapp: we have to use the best of each theory. When human behavior is important, we should use behaviorism. Cognitive processes are best explained by cognitivism. We can apply this approach to each theory.
I checked your links: Transfer of learning theory is very interesting. Any knowledge is pointless if it cannot be applied. But how the application does take place? Apparently transfer of knowledge occurs at a subconscious level if automaticity is present. Thank you for the interesting links!
I agree that no one theory can do it all. We must incorporate different elements from each in order to help our students. I find a lot of people try to focus on the cognitive process or constructivism and turn their noses up at behaviorism. But, behaviorism has it's place in the classroom as well. Each theory has sound practices to offer.
ReplyDelete