Week 1 - Learning Theory

Learning Theory: A learning theory is how learners learn. There are three theories to be considered, these are: Behaviourism, Cognitivism and Constructivism.

Behaviourism: Also referred to as “objectivism” is based on behavioural psychology. It defines that learning is characterised by an observable change in behaviour.

Cognitivism: “Cognitivists sought to understand learning in terms of mental processing.” As stated in selected readings for distance students (2010, p. 3). The three stage model below explains the mental processes: Sensory Memory, Working Memory and Long Term Memory.

Image courtesy of - Central Queensland University - FAHE11001 Managing E-Learning

Constructivism: Learning is a process in which the learner constructs or builds new ideas/concepts based on current and past knowledge/experience.

If you would like to learn more about Learning Theories the following link to Wikipedia has definitions and detailed information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learning_theory_(education)

Reference

Wikipedia.(2010). Learning theories. Retrieved November 18, 2010, from

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learning_theory_(education)

 

Central Queensland University (CQU). (2010). FAHE11001 – Learning theories: Study Guide. Rockhampton. QLD, Australia: Author.