Cognitivism as a Learning Theory

Module 2

Responded to www.blogmitchellstevens.blogspot.com.

and http://sharon-mcdaniel.blogspot.com

Cognitivism as a Learning Theory

"It seems to me that each _ism is offering something useful without any of them being complete or stand alone in their own right" (Kerr, 2007).

When considering the various learning theories I agree with Bill Kerr when creating learning experiences implementation of characteristics from various learning theories is essential because each of these theories offer valuable insight and information concerning the learning process. Since learning theories address how people learn I agree with Kerr that no learning theory can stand alone and be complete. The learning process is complex and cannot be explained by one learning theory alone. Therefore, we must take the essential parts from each theory to create effective learning experiences. Kapp states it best when he says, "What we need to do is take the best from each philosophy and use it wisely to create solid educational experiences for our learners" (Kapp, 2007). As educators, when teaching it is important that we meet the needs of each individual student in our classroom, by planning lessons that incorporate a variety of learning theories so we can reach all types of learners.

Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: discussion on educational schools of thought. Retrieved from
http://karlkapp.blogspot.com/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational.html


Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as fliter, not blinker.Retrieved from
http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Module 1

Learning Theory and Educational Technology
Responded to http://holly-shumaker.blogspot.com/
and
http://carollee387blogspot.com/

Topic: What are your beliefs about how people learn best? What is the purpose of learning theory in educational technology?

Throughout my experiences of teaching and working with both children and adults, I believe that people learn best through socialization and hands on type of experiences. The more opportunities students have to engage in meaningful discussions and reflect on their experiences they are able to gain a better understanding of content and concepts being taught. During this process, students are able to create their meaning by engaging in authentic learning experiences and they are playing an active role in the learning process. When I consider my belief about how people learn best, my beliefs relate best to the Constructivism leaning theory. The attributes of this learning theory relate best to Interpretivism/Constructivism, which Siemens states “is internal, and knowledge is constructed” (Siemens, 2008).

As Siemens states, “The ongoing growth of the internet for teaching and learning will likely continue to raise networks as a prominent means of representing knowledge and the learning process” (Siemens, 2008). With these changes in education regarding knowledge and the learning process due to technologies the theories of learning will need to change to incorporate these new technologies. Therefore, the purpose of learning theory in educational technology is to acknowledge the rapid changes of networks that is enabling access “to content, experts, and global connections with fellow learners” and consider the results, the means and the inputs of these resources regarding learning. In doing this, educators must rethink approaches to learning and teaching differently if they are to accept these changes regarding educational technology and prepare today’s learners for the future.

Reference

Siemens, G. (2008, January 27). Learning and knowing in networks: Changing roles for educators and designers. Paper presented to ITFORUM. Retrieved March 8, 2010 from http://it.coe.uga.edu/itforum/Paper105/Siemens.pdf

Helpful Links about Constructivism and Educational Technology are listed below:

http://www.learning-theories.com/

http://ed.fnal.gov/trc_new/sciencelines_online/summer96/activities.html

http://people.uis.edu/rschr1/et/blogger.html