Applying Learning Theoriesin Your Teaching

Presented by

Susan M. Zvacek, Ph.D.Fulbright Scholar

University of Kansas

Historical Perspective

Behaviorism

Cognitive Processing

Constructivism

What is Behaviorism?

Focus on … behavior Stimulus-Response and

Behavior Modification orientation We ignore what we can’t know

(internal processes) No longer popular as a learning

theory base

Behaviorist Theories

Conditioning/

Shaping

Connectionism

Practical Applications of Behaviorism

Identifying observable

(action-oriented) outcomes

Providing feedback to students

Considering transfer of skills

to new environments

What is Cognitive Processing?

Focus on how the brain works Includes memory, thinking,

perceiving, etc. Two areas of emphasis

Memory processes Individual differences

Cognitive Processing Theories

Cognitive Load

Schema Theory

Visual Literacy

Elaboration Theory

Practical Applications of Cognitive Processing Theory

Presenting content in manageable amounts (chunks)

Providing “Advance Organizers” and promoting recall of prior knowledge

Designing visuals from simple to complex

Presenting information that may cause cognitive dissonance

What is Constructivism?

Focus on learner’s active role in his/her own learning

Meaning is constructed in the individual (not transmitted from outside)

Learner reflection on/organization of content

Emphasis on personal relevance to learner

Constructivist Theories

Attribution/Motivation

Active learning

Metacognition

Practical Applications of Constructivism

Designing activities to promote

engagement

Attributing progress to internal factors

Using concept maps

Offering students choice in

assessment methods

Summary

What theories might you apply

in your teaching?

Are some more appropriate for your

content, your students, your goals

than others?