Learning Theories

1. Learning Theories Behaviorism, Cognitivism & Constructivism

2. Behaviorism • The focus is on cause and effect relationships. • Why? Because they can be observed through behavior. • Internal process are not visible • Behavior can be modified through contingencies of reinforcement For more information on Behaviorism visit: http://web.cocc.edu/cbuell/theories/behaviorism.htm

3. Contingencies of Reinforcement • A learner can be conditioned to exert the desired response. • Three situations shaping behavior: • Positive reinforcement (i.e. reward) • Negative reinforcement (i.e. leaving early to avoid traffic) • Punishment (i.e. a failing grade for cheating)

4. Cognitivism (a.k.a. Information Processing) • The focus is on internal processes, instead of strictly external events. • Uses the analogy of a computer to illustrate how the mind processes information. • This theory proposes that the mind has 3 different memory stores that work in succession to register, process, store, and retrieve information. For more information on Cognitivism visit: http://web.cocc.edu/cbuell/theories/cognitivism.htm

5. Constructivism • This philosophy says that humans construct all knowledge in their minds by participating in experiences. • Learning occurs when a person constructs the mechanisms for learning and their own unique version of that knowledge • Constructivists recommend that students participate in meaningful activities so that learners are able to generate their own knowledge. For more information on Constructivism visit: http://web.cocc.edu/cbuell/theories/constructivism.htm

6. Directed Instruction Constructivst Instruction vs.

7. Comparing the Learning Paradigms

8. Learning Theory Assignment The design I used for my PowerPoint is fairly simple because adding too much color or “pizzazz” to the background makes the information difficult to read. I used a design that resembled a piece of lined paper for slides 2-5 so that the text stood out. I used a text and table layout for slide 6 to contrast the differences between directed and constructivist instruction. I inserted hyperlinks at the bottom of 3 slides; slide 2 (behaviorism), slide 4 (cognitivism), and slide 5 (constructivism) because the hyperlinks directly relate to the material in each of the slides. The hyperlinks I choose are easy to understand, and not too wordy or confusing. I did not include all the information presented to us in class because if I included all information, there would be no need for anybody to listen to the lecture presented with the PowerPoint. For example, in slide 3 I listed the contingencies for reinforcement and gave examples, but did not define what “positive reinforcement” or “negative reinforcement” means. I think it is important to understand that the PowerPoint is not supposed to take place of the lecture/presentation, but is meant to supplement the lecture.

9. Hi Dennis- I was unable to add any sound effects to my PowerPoint because I have to install the sound effects from the CD-ROM and I do not have the CD anymore! I know how to do it and will add a sound effect in class on Thursday if you wish. Sorry! Hope you had a great anniversary. -Kara Kantrowitz