Learning Theories by Patricia PEna

1. Learning Theoriesby Patricia PEna

2. Learning Theories Behaviorism and Congitvism are two learning theories that impacted the concept of learning. Through this two theories we were able to understand the development of learning and how it takes place. Two of the most influential theorist that brought about the interest in human learning were psychologist, Ivan Pavlov and psychologist, Jean Piaget. Through their principles and theories, we have developed an understanding of how learning takes place. Their ideas and concepts have brought about great interest in the field of science, primarily ,in psychology, and more importantly ,in the field of adult education.

3. Learning Theories Behaviorism Theory Behaviorism is a theory of animal and human learning that only focuses on objectively observable behaviors.(F,1) Through this theory experiments , behaviorist identified CONDITIONING as a universal learning process. (F,1) It is based on, primarily, on reflexive behavior exposed to certain stimuli. This theory concentrates more on the reaction factor of learner adapting to the environment more than accounting for any mental process of information.

4. Learning Theories There are two different types of conditioning; Classic conditioning and Operant conditioning. 1.Classic conditioning - occurs when a natural reflex responds to a stimulus. 2. Behavioral or Operant conditioning- occurs when a response to a stimulus is reinforced. The best known work in classical conditioning , was Pavlov’s famous experiment that involved food, a dog, and a bell.(F,1)

5. Learning Theories Ivan Pavlov Ivan Petrovich Pavlov (September 14, 1849 – February 27, 1936) Ryazan, Russia. Fields in Physiologist, psychologist, and physician. Known for Classical Conditioning and Behavior Modification. Nobel Prize in Physiology (1904).(M,2)

6. Learning Theories The famous “Dog-Salivation-Experiment” by Ivan Petrovich Pavlov where he conducted observations on dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell after placing it next to the dog’s food. He then introduce light at the same time and condition the dog to react to the light as well. This experiment was later adapted by B.F. Skinner with pigeons –”Skinner Box” where experiment where also tried animals to determine the factor behind conditioning the environment. His theory is based on the believe that animals and humans are biologically wired to respond to stimulus automatically.(F,1) The following is a visual description on of Pavlov’s Experiment and the process to he used to conditioned end the result.

7. Learning Theories Pavlov’s Experiment (U,3)

8. Pavlov conducted, perhaps, the most famous of all psychological experiments (1927) when he showed that by pairing a conditioned stimulus (a bell) with an unconditioned stimulus (food), a dog would begin to salivate (response) when the bell was rung without presenting the food. (S,4) (S,4)

9. Learning Theories Cognitive Theory is based on the thought process behind the behavior. Changes in behavior are observed, and used as indicator as to what is happening inside the learner’s mind. Key Concepts of Cognitive Theory Schema: An internal knowledge structure. New information is compared with information already presented . Meaningful Effects: Information that has a useful meaning to the learner is a lot easier to remember. Mnemonic Effects: Ways to remember information easier, clues .(U,3)

10. Learning Theories Jean Piaget (1896-1980) Swiss biologist and psychologist is renowned for constructing a highly influential model of child development and learning environment. Motivated by his mother’s illness, decided to concentrate in the field of psychology with emphasis in cognitive process and learning. By age 22 he had received his Ph.D. in science from the University of Neuchatel.(M,2)

11. Learning Theories Piaget’s theory is based on the idea that the developing child builds cognitive structures–in other words, mental “maps,” schemes, or networked concepts for understanding and responding to physical experiences withinhis or her environment. Piaget’s theory identifies four developmental stages and the processes by children progress through them. Cognitive Development Stages Senorimotor 0-2 Reflex base, Coordinate reflexes Preoperational 2-7 Self-oriented , Egocentric Concrete 6 or 7 More than one view point, No 11 or 12 abstract problems Formal Operational 11 or 12 Think abstractly, up Reason theoretically(M,3)

12. Learning Theories Many of Piaget’s ideas and concepts are used today. We specifically see the use of his theory in the early childhood educational setting. His theory did not impact North America until the 1960’s (ID) and from there his influence in the area of psychology came about.(U,3) Through his development of several new fields of science: developmental psychology, cognitive theory , and epistemology Piaget’s became the most remarkable leader in his kind. With his interest in young children he helped found today’s education-reform movements. Piaget’s theory is followed by many classroom teachers ,around the world ,who share his way of thought. His theory helped design learning around the child by exposing them to different learning methods and styles.

13. Learning Theories Like Piaget, Pavlov ‘s theory also had a great influence in aspects. He help create interest in Behaviorism by other well known theorist that used his concepts to develop their own experiments and look closer into the theory. Such as B.F. Skinner and his “Skinner Box” experiment with pigeons (F,1) Piaget and Pavlov, both helped defined what is now known as the most influential theory of thought in the field of psychology and education. It is thru their study of human learning and behavior development that helps us better understand the process of instructional design and the concepts behind them.

14. Learning Theories Conclusion In reference to instructional design the Behaviorism helped determine methods to alter and outcome. By modifying and predetermine objectives, the learner has clear understanding what is expected of them. But it also requires a cognitive process . The simple conditioning can not help shape an outcome. Other factors come in place. Skills, attitudes , analysis, and synthesizing information that help us in the learning process. (U,3) Many other learning theories have been develop ever since Piaget and Pavlov , particularly in the field of Instructional Design. Two good examples, are Bloom’s Cognitive taxonomy and Gagne’s Taxonomy of Learning. This two method are widely used by many instructional designers. (U,3)

15. Learning Theories Cont. After studying these two distinct prospective in human learning, it has being my experience that no theory is right or wrong. It is a combination of many strategies from one theory and from other such as the Eclectic Approach.(U,3) As a teacher, I use different methods that work in my classroom. Adapting and modifying instruction based on the learning styles and educational needs of my students. Instructional designers must use different elements and take into consideration the learners abilities and necessities to be successful designers.

16. References http://www.funderstanding.com/behaviorism.cfm. http://www.muskingum.edu http://www.usask.ca http://www.skagitwatershed.org/~donclark/hrd/history/pavlov.html