Cognitivism as a Learning Theory - Module 2

After reading the discussions of Bill Kerr, Stephen Downs, and Karl Kapp, I would have to say that I agree with Kerr’s “isms".  I see the potential for all the diverse learning theories in education.  I don’t think that how we learn can be specifically explained by one theory alone.  If one learning theory could explain how we learn, I don’t believe that there would be so many beliefs and arguments available.

I do agree that we learn through cognitivism in the respect of problem solving and creativity.  However, I defiantly see some aspects of behaviorism in the respect to stimulus and response.  We have to keep an open mind when it comes to these learning theories.  It is my opinion that the way we learn will never be explained by one theory alone.  Even with a class of ten students, it is hard to find three students who learn in the same way.  As stated by Kerr (2007) in reference to –isms, “They evolve, they listen to criticism and move on.”

Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://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 from http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/

Responded to Waymyers and Karen Wondergem for module 2.

Learning Theory and Educational Technology - Module 1

Everyone learns in their own special way.  Some learn better in groups, some alone.  Some people learn better when someone else explains a concept while others learn when the activity is hands on.  In a world consumed by technology, people learn when they are using a digital device.  Whether that device is a Smart phone, a computer, a Kindle, and iPad, or interactive white board learning can take place.  The purpose of learning theory in educational technology is to determine which of these technologies would best promote learning.  Surely the form of technology used would depend on the content and the desired outcome.  There is an abundance of learning theories in the realm of education.  However, the cognitive theory best fits in this technology based world.  When trying to find a theory where the symbolism of the brain works resembles how a computer works, the cognitive theory is it. 

          The students of our classrooms today a very tech savvy.  Unlike me who really started working with computer in middle school, my students have been working with them since Prekindergarten.  Our students are on Facebook, have cell phones, use iPods and iPads, and know a computer better than some teachers.  It only makes since that with such tech driven students their education follow suit with the rest of their life.  In my classroom, I use computers and my interactive white board to teach, play games, practice skills, and practice our standards.  So I believe that for today’s students technology is very essential in the learning process.  BV

Responded to Sandra Dykes and Debra Morris for Module 1.