Learning, and theories of learning Flashcards
Define ‘learning’
Learning is a process that results in a change in knowledge or behaviour as a result of an experience.
What are the 4 main learning theories?
- Behaviourism
- Cognitivism
- Constructivism
- Social learning theory
Behaviourism - what are the 2 different types of conditioning?
- Classical
- Behavioural/Operant
Behaviourism - What is classical conditioning?
Occurs when a natural reflex responds to a stimulus
Behaviourism - What is operant conditioning?
Occurs when a response to a stimulus is reinforced, so operant conditioning is a simple feedback system
How would a behaviourist define learning?
As an acquisition of new behaviour. This means that successful learning is measured in terms of changes of behaviour.
Behaviourism - would a behaviourist consider what happens in a learners mind necessary?
No - learning is viewed as a specific behavioural outcome. Learning is mainly a passive act.
Behaviourism - How are teachers and learners viewed?
Teacher is viewed as a transmitter of important knowledge and learner is a passive receiver of the knowledge.
Behaviourism - what is the ‘cardinal motivator’?
Reinforcement - positive reinforcers like rewards are preferable to negative events like punishment.
What is the main difference between cognitivism and behaviourism?
Cognitivism takes into account cognitive processing whereas behaviourists focus on a response to a stimulus.
Cognitivism - How does a learner gain environmental data?
Via senses. This data is processed and organised (thinking), thereafter, the learner can act on the world.
Cognitivism - How are learners viewed?
Learners are viewed as information processors. Tasks are analysed then broken down into steps.
What are the 2 types of constructivism?
- Cognitive constructivism
- Social constructivism
Constructivism - What is cognitive constructivism?
Where learners understand things in terms of developmental stages and learning styles (Piaget). Transition between stages is not a smooth process and theory is based on understanding that each child has key maturation spurts where learning ‘takes off’.
Constructivism - What is social constructivism?
Emphasizes the ways in which meanings and understanding grow out of social encounters, particularly when young learners are in contact with adults or more experienced learners.
