Learning Theories
Nina P. Driaza
Sect. 5552
Outline
Behaviorism
Cognitivism
Constructivism
Behaviorism http://web.cocc.
edu/cbuell/theories/behaviorism.htm
Definition:“study of behavior as related to stimulus and response, and the consequences associated with it.”
B.F. Skinner:• “Learning is a function of
change in behavior”• Changes in behavior →
individual’s response to stimuli.
• Stimulus-Response (S-R) pattern
• Reinforcement is the key
Principles of Skinner’s theory:
1. Behavior that receives positive reinforcement will be repeated.
2. Presentation of small amounts of information aids reinforcement.
3. Reinforcements will “generalize across stimuli producing secondary conditioning.”
Cognitivism http://web.cocc.
edu/cbuell/theories/cognitivism.htm
Definition:the study of cognition- mental activity.
“Learning is a mental process.”
G. Miller:• Chunking & short term
memory• TOTE (Test-Operate-Test-
Exit)
Principles of Miller’s theory:
1. Short term memory is limited to 7 chunks of information.
2. Planning (TOTE) is a “fundamental cognitive process.”
3. Behavior is organized hierarchically.
Constructivism http://web.cocc.
edu/cbuell/theories/constructivism.htm
Definition: “study of learning as a process in which learners construct new ideas or concepts based upon current and past knowledge.”
J. Bruner:• 4 aspects of instruction-
• Predisposition towards learning• Structure of information easiest
to grasp by learner• Most effective sequence to
present material• Nature and pacing of rewards
and punishment
Principles of Bruner’s theory:
1. Instruction must make the student willing and able to learn.
2. Instruction must be structured to be grasped easily by student.
3. Instruction must “facilitate extrapolation and/or fill in the gaps.”
Compare & Contrast
Learning Theory
Behaviorism Cognitivism Constructivism
How people learn
Learning is a function of change in behavior
Learning is a mental process
Learning involves constructing one's own knowledge from one's own experiences
How technology is used in learning
Teaching machines, instructional films and TV, programmed instruction, instructional design, & direct instruction
Simulations, artificial intelligence, expert systems, intelligent tutorial systems, & virtual reality
Productivity tools, concept maps, hypermedia, & conversation tools
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