Willingham learning theory

Question 1

Willinghams theory

Answer 1

To develop or learn skill, previous knowledge is usually needed. Knowledge can free up space in our working memory which allows us to use mental skills such as problem-solving and this is important because working memory is limited. Willingham suggests that what someone already knows leaves them with more proceessing power to solve a problem and aids understanding

Question 2

Short term memory

Answer 2

Our initial memory store that is temporary and limited

Question 3

Long term memory

Answer 3

A memory store that holds potentially limitless amounts of information for up to a lifetime
For example, our name

Question 4

Motor skills

Answer 4

Actions thst involves muscles and brain processes, resulting in movement

Question 5

Working memory

Answer 5

Has different parts of processing information coming in from our senses, including visual and sound data, and also involves a decision making part

Question 6

Rehersal

Answer 6

Repeat information over and over agin to make it stick

Question 7

Simple summary

Answer 7

Practising makes you better as you will automatically remember

“Don’t practice untill you get it right
Practice till you can’t get it wrong”

Question 8

Why is practice and effort important for learning

Answer 8

It enables us to master knowledge and skills. Practice leads to us to do things automatically

Question 9

Strength

Answer 9

Willinghams work can be applied to education and others situation to promote a childs development in a positive way

Question 10

Weakness

Answer 10

Willingham did not emphasise the importance of indivisual differences in learning, though some of his theory relates to genes

Question 11

What does Willighams learning theroy suggest?

Answer 11

Willingham’s theory suggests that children need to practise
movement skills repeatedly to make them automatic (

the pupils in activities such as cutting
using scissors repeatedly, offe