Module 2 Cognitivism as a Learning Theory

Cognitivism Module 2

Cognitivism

The two theories that were discussed were behaviorism and cognitivism. The behaviorist theory is based on behavioral changes. It focuses on a new behavioral pattern being repeated until it becomes automatic. Cognitivism is based on the thought process behind the behavior. It states that changes in behavior are observed, but only as an indicator to what is going on in the learner's head. In regards to the different learning theories, I agree with Kerr’s statement that “what we need to do is take the best from each philosophy and use it wisely to create solid educational experiences for our learners.” There are students who excel using different strategies so teachers must be aware of and use what is appropriate for each situation. No student fits into a mold, so there has to be some overlapping of the theories. According to Kapp (2007) learning is multi-facetted and that is why developing new models for “learning” is so difficult…there are too many levels for one school of thought or one model to do it all. It is true that no one theory can stand alone and be strong in itself, but if we apply different aspects of each theory to fill a particular learning need then we may be able to design a course that can be consider exceptional in terms of the learning processes (Marshall-Stuart, 2010). To be effective teachers or instructors, the various theories should be considered when designing lessons.

References

Kapp, K. (2007). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought. Retrieved from  http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-   discussion-on-educational/

Marshall-Stuart, D. (2010). As quoted by Kerr, B. (2007). _isms as filter, not blinker. Retrieved  from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Module 6 Learning in a Digital World

Module 6 

Technology has allowed me to continue my education at two Universities. This would not have been possible if I had to physically attend a university, being that the closet one is about 1 hour away. The online environment gives one the option of going to class whenever it is convenient. As has been discussed in several of our courses, constructivism requires one to take responsibility of his/her own learning. I must say that I have learned a lot through the program that was scheduled. Being a part of the online classes for the past five years has helped me to become a better teacher.

Several things that I feel are critical and non-negotiable in teaching and learning is that one must be prepared and goals must be established based on state or national standards. Teachers must be knowledgeable about their subjects if they are to guide and facilitate learning effectively. Teachers should also be aware of the needs of their students in order to differentiate instruction.

Cognitivism Module 2

Cognitivism

The two theories that were discussed were behaviorism and cognitivism. The behaviorist theory is based on behavioral changes. It focuses on a new behavioral pattern being repeated until it becomes automatic. Cognitivism is based on the thought process behind the behavior. It states that changes in behavior are observed, but only as an indicator to what is going on in the learner's head. In regards to the different learning theories, I agree with Kerr’s statement that “what we need to do is take the best from each philosophy and use it wisely to create solid educational experiences for our learners.” There are students who excel using different strategies so teachers must be aware of and use what is appropriate for each situation. No student fits into a mold, so there has to be some overlapping of the theories. According to Kapp (2007) learning is multi-facetted and that is why developing new models for “learning” is so difficult…there are too many levels for one school of thought or one model to do it all. It is true that no one theory can stand alone and be strong in itself, but if we apply different aspects of each theory to fill a particular learning need then we may be able to design a course that can be consider exceptional in terms of the learning processes (Marshall-Stuart, 2010). To be effective teachers or instructors, the various theories should be considered when designing lessons.

References

Kapp, K. (2007). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought. Retrieved from  http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-   discussion-on-educational/

Marshall-Stuart, D. (2010). As quoted by Kerr, B. (2007). _isms as filter, not blinker. Retrieved  from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Module 5 Responses

Module 5

Marc, Boese
http://mboese.blogspot.com/

and

Brandy Collins
http://bcollins-learningtheoryeducationalte.blogspot.com/

New Technologies

As a general music teacher, I handled many music CD’s during my lessons. Once I started using the iPod touch instead of CD’s, my lessons flowed a lot smoother. I tried to encourage fellow music teachers to adopt the new technology. (Attention). Some didn’t seem interested and continued using the old system. One did express an interest in using the iPod to access her music.

Keller’s ARCS model addresses attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction (Driscoll, 2005). To motivate teachers to change, a demonstration could be given at their workplace to show how convenient the technology is to use. (Relevance). After the teachers had a chance to use the technology, they would probably adopt it. (Confidence). Anyone who handles a lot of CD’s as I did in the past would gain (satisfaction) in having everything that they needed right at their fingertips.

Reference

Driscoll, M. P. (2005) Psychology of learning for instruction (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.