What I found to be surprising is there is not one method or strategy that facilitates each person’s learning style. Teaching one specific way does not ensure that every student will understand the new concepts and will be able to store the information in their memory. Ertmer and Newby (1993) stated, “Learning is a complex process that has generated numerous interpretations and theories of how it is effectively accomplished “(p.51). When I was learning about the different learning theories I realized that I had a misconception about Behaviorism. I thought that Behaviorism was the lowest level of cognition when learning new concepts. I was proven wrong when Dr. Paige (2011), stated “Behaviorism equals lower skill attainment, Cognitivism equals higher skill attainment, and Constructivism equals the highest skill attainment. This interpretation can be taken from the chart in the Ertmer & Newbey article if the article itself is not carefully analyzed. Actually, each of these theories is more closely aligned with HOW learning takes place, not necessarily WHAT is learned” (Walden University). So Behaviorism often times is instilled as rote and then with continuous exposure to the concepts, becomes automatic. I try and incorporate Behaviorism, Constructivism and Cognitivsm in my lessons so that I can ensure that each student is learning and they can apply new knowledge to new experiences. Bill Kerr pointed out that each _ism offers something useful without any of them being complete or stand alone in their own right (2007).
My personal learning process is different as an adult learner. As a child and also as an adult, I process information visually before I develop understanding. Videos are a useful tool, which was very helpful throughout this course, or graphic organizers, that lend a hand in the process of learning. What I didn’t realize and I made a connection through this course is as an adult learner I tend to reflect more on learning and I am more self reliant and self directed towards reaching goals (Cercone, p.143). Cercone discussed a term andragogy which means adults direct their own learning and are more independent and self reliant. When I take these online courses I always reflect on what I am learning and apply it to what I will be doing in the future. I have more responsibilities and more at stake now as an adult learner, which therefore I spend more time processing information and apply it to my life than I ever did as a young learner. Throughout this course I learned that through the different learning theories, educational technology applications are used to complement different learning styles. Social constructivism displays this by constructing knowledge through social interactions and personal experiences. Each person brings previous experiences and socially interacts with others to a learning situation. With the use of blogs, online discussion boards, Facebook, and cell phones, learners are able to socially interact with others and process information in a constructivist way.
Motivation is also a key component in the learning process as well. According to the ARCS model there are four dimensions of motivation that drives students to learn successfully and they are: A-attention, R-relevance, C-confidence, S-satisfaction (Keller, 1999). Learners need to have a connection with the material, be interested in what they are learning and have the confidence that he or she can succeed at learning the new material. I notice these dimensions as I learn new concepts and as I teach new material to my students. These are very important and determine if the learner will be successful or not.This class has provided a good foundation for me as an instructor. It has given me the resources to use and apply in my classroom with my students. I have gained a deeper level of understanding about the learning process and how to develop instruction that is effective for every learner. Developing an understanding of the different learning theories, applying it to educational technology and combing student motivation I think are all the key ingredients to valuable instruction. This class not only created a solid teacher, but it will help me design useful curriculum as an instructional designer. It will help me determine what material is appropriate and most successful for each learner.
In conclusion, Learning Theories and Instruction has provided awareness about the different learning theories. Now that I have learned about these different theories, I am able to use them and effectively help learners in a more successful way. In turn, as an Instructional Designer, this class has given me the foundation that will provide instruction that is beneficial to everyone.References:
Cercone, K. (2008). Characteristics of adult learners with implications for online learning design. AACE Journal, 16(2), 137–159. Retrieved from http://www.editlib.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Reader.ViewAbstract&paper_id=24286
Ertmer, P. A., & Newby, T. J. (1993). Behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism: Comparing critical features from an instructional design perspective. Performance Improvement Quarterly, 6(4), 50–71.
Keller, J. M. (1999). Using the ARCS motivational process in computer-based instruction and distance education. New Directions for Teaching and Learning (78).
Kerr, B (2007). Blog by Bill Kerr. Retrieved September 21, 2011, from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html
Paige, Ronald (2011, September 23). [Discussion group comment]. Cognitivism and behaviorism. http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=5693693&Survey=1&47=9626609&ClientNodeID=984650&coursenav=1&bhcp=1
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