Theories and Models of Learning and Instruction

 

Epistemology is what and how we know (human knowledge)

 

Methods of Learning has evolved over the past fifty years. In the 1960's and 1970's -The Learning Style based on each individual began to take place and this changed how lessons were being taught. Educators began to learn that lecture and memorization was not the only way to teach.
1980's- Cognitive Learning was at the forefront, people processed information differently. Tutors were used and seen as a guide through learning.
1990's- Constructivism and Situated Learning is teaching and then allowing the students to perform. (Practice what they have learned)
Present Day- Situated Practice with learning styles and methods being researched and improving. Students are given more experience.
Basically, the evolution of learning began more with lecture "beat it in your head" instruction and moved to hands on student involvement.

There are many different type of theories and methods:

Behavioral Learning Theory: B.F. Skinner believed learning was determined by the person's environment and through positive reinforcement.

Cognitive Information Processing Theory: Like the Behavioral Learning Theory, it also believes environment plays a significant role in learning. However, Cognitive Information Processing believes how it is processed, retained, recalled and relates to prior knowledge. It also states we have three memory systems: sensory, short term and long term.

Schema Theory and Cognitive Load: Schema is packets of information in long term memory. Schema organizes information into categories and it also recalls on prior knowledge like Cognitive Information Processing. Schema is constantly building: The more you know, the larger and more complex it becomes.

Cognitive Load: Is that our memory capacity is limited. Van Merrienboer proposes that learning should be introduced in gradual steps to avoid high Cognitive Load.

Situated Learning Theory: "A Work in Progress"  Learning through life situations. Must be authentic and realistic based on culture. Teach using what students know or have an interest in.

Gagne's Theory of Instruction: Gagne based his research on cognitive information processing theory and his own observations of effective teachers. He believes there are many types of learning and each one requires instruction customized individually.

Constructivism: Learning from the inside out. Hands on learning, collaboration with peers. Taking new information and combining with experiences.



My stances on the three contrasting epistemic stances would primary be positivist. I have to have solid facts. A long time ago, I had an instructor who did not believe that the Holocaust did not occur based on theory. I do believe that the Holocaust happened based on many recounts of peoples experiences, books, pictures, military reports  and museums with artifacts. She dismissed all of that and would say; "All theories to this subject were correct and believable." After reading and learning about the epistemic stances it could have been why she believed that way.

Problem Solving from a constructivist approach would build upon knowledge. A ladder of growth. Provides a purpose for learning and is engaging. Getting students to solve problems based on prior problem solving techniques. Motivation begins when learners have satisfying results.

Problem solving from a behaviorist's point of view is that they believe all behavior is learned from their environment and response accordingly. Learning occurs through trial and error. Motivation begins when learning is meaningful and relates to their goals.