Kerr (2007) asks us if the
isms of learning theory are useful for what we think and do.
During the first few years of
my learning in the master program for teaching I learned about the different
learning theories. The application of these theories did not come into focus
for me until I was a seasoned teacher with a few years of experience behind me.
To me at the time they each seemed to work separately based on the ideology
that they had.
As a seasoned teacher I see
now that the ideas of constructing knowledge and learning knowledge through
behavior are not really separate at all. Each student takes meaning in
different ways and some may go through various stages of each learning theory
to create lasting meaning with the content.
Memorizing science terms and
being able to apply the terms to real life application is something that is
accomplished through the use of both cognitive and behaviorist theory. The
students are expected to behave in a certain way and memorize the terms but the
deeper learning comes when the use the cognitive theory and relate the terms to
their daily life.
Kerr, B. (2007, January 1).
_isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved fromhttp://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html
Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on
educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved fromhttp://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/
Responses to
Melissa,
ReplyDeleteI think that you post was very interesting and I could see how as an educator you would feel the importance of understanding student knowledge and how their behavior reflects what they know and how they learn.
Melissa,
ReplyDeleteI could not agree more with your statement that learning through behavior and constructing knowledge are not very different at all. I tend to find the debate about which learning theory is the best, to be a little frustrating. I know that I shouldn't say that, but the truth of the matter is that they are all really good theories that depend on each other for success. Each theory has its place and a good educator should know what strategies/theories to use in order to help students learn.
Great post....I couldn't agree more