Learning Theories

Mark Ediger, Monica Pitts, Shawntell Warr, Brandi Williams

November 10, 2014

AET 500

Mary Joseph-Martin

Introduction

• Thorndike's Learning Theory

– Behavioral

• Gestalt's Learning Theory

– Cognitive

Thorndike's Learning Theory

• Laws of Learning

• Rewarding connections

• Learners make connections to be rewarded

• Instructors rewarding learners

Thorndike's Learning Theory

• Predict

Performance

• Experiential

Analysis

• Test Performance

• Control of

Intellectual

Functioning

Gestalt's Learning Theory

•People process information

•Perception, Insight, & Meaning

•Make connections

•Learners & mental processes are first

Thorndike’s Effect

• Traditional Classroom- recognition in front

of peers, instant feedback to motivate

• Online Classroom- feedback may be

delayed which deters positive response,

outside stimuli can motivate or deter student

response

Gestalt’s Effect

• Traditional Classroom- grouping students

based on their level of understanding,

learners can work together to make

connections

• Online Classroom- encourages

understanding on an individual level, easy

online access to additional learning tools

Thorndike’s Learning Theory VS. Gestalt's Learning Theory

THORDIKE’S research comprised a group of

experiments that required a voluntary behavioral

response from subjects. His experiments were referred

to as experiments instrumental conditioning and were

intended to conclude if animals problem solved through

reasoning or by a more rudimentary process.

GESTALT’S research suggest that perceptions are

influenced by past experiences. This perspective centers

around the belief that human consciousness is not

broken down into its elements.

Thorndike identified the Law of Effect – a satisfying effect

following the response strengthens the connection between

the stimulus and the behavior.

When approaching adult learners it is imperative to attempt

to satisfy the learner and build a connection in order to

foster a strong relationship and good learning environment

for the student.

According to Gesalt’s theory it is imperative to attempt to

learn about one’s past learning experience in order to gain

a positive future learning experience

References

• Behaviorism. (2014). Retrieved from

http://psychology.jrank.org/pages/72/Behaviorism.html

• F, C. (2011, September 11). Thorndike [Video file]. Retrieved from

Youtube website:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzNIV0mTROU

• Fritscher, Lisa. Cognitive Theory. About.com Guide. April, 2011.

http://phobias.about.com/od/glossary/g/cognitivethedef.htm

• Learning theory and intelligence. Estes, W. K. American Psychologist,

Vol 29(10), Oct 1974, 740-749