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.
Constructivism - What is the mechanism for learning in social constructivism?
Language of the culture
Constructivism - How must teachers and coaches begin the learning process?
By understanding a learners prior learning so new learning can be built upon it through active learning.
