Fundamental Laws/

Theories of Learning
 THEORIES OF LEARNING
•Theories of learning are ideas about the
ways students learn and retain
information.
•These principles provide different
frameworks that teachers can use to
adapt students’ diverse learning and
academic needs.
THEORIES OF LEARNING
• Behaviorism
• Cognitivism
• Constructivism
• Social Learning Theory
• Experiential Learning
• Humanistic Learning
• Connectivism
 Behaviorism Learning Theory
• Behaviorism is a psychological and educational theory that
focuses on observable behaviors and the role of stimuli and
responses in learning. It emerged as a dominant school of
thought in psychology during the early 20th century, with
influential figures such as John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner.

• Behaviorism has been influential in the field of education, where

it led to the development of teaching methods based on
reinforcement, repetition, and the use of rewards and
punishments. However, it has also faced criticism for
oversimplifying the complexities of human learning, neglecting
cognitive processes, and not accounting for individual differences
THEORIES OF LEARNING
in learning styles.
 Behaviorism Learning Theory

KEY PRINCIPLES
• Stimulus-Response (S-R) Associations: Behaviorists believe that
learning is the result of associations formed between stimuli and
responses. In other words, behavior is a reaction to external stimuli.
• Conditioning: Behaviorists often discuss classical conditioning and
operant conditioning as mechanisms for learning.
• Classical Conditioning: This involves associating an involuntary response with a
stimulus. Ivan Pavlov's famous experiment with dogs is a classic example. The
dogs learned to associate the sound of a bell (neutral stimulus) with the arrival of
food, causing them to salivate even when food was not present.
• Operant Conditioning: This involves associating a behavior with its
consequences. B.F. Skinner introduced the concept of reinforcement and
punishment. Positive reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring
again, while punishment decreases it.
• Observable Behavior: Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors
rather than internal mental processes. This means that subjective
experiences, thoughts, and emotions are not directly addressed in
behaviorist theories.
THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Cognitivism Learning Theory
• Cognitivism is a learning theory that emerged in response to the
limitations of behaviorism, which did not adequately address the role
of mental processes in learning. Cognitivism focuses on the internal
mental processes involved in learning, such as perception, memory,
problem-solving, and thinking. This theory suggests that learning is
an active, mental process in which individuals construct knowledge
and understanding through cognitive structures.
• Cognitivism has had a significant impact on education, leading to the
development of instructional strategies that promote active
engagement, problem-solving, and the development of higher-order
thinking skills. Cognitive theories have also influenced the design of
educational technologies, such as computer-based learning and
multimedia instruction.
THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Cognitivism Learning Theory
1.Information Processing: Cognitivists view the mind as a processing system that takes in
information, organizes it, and stores it for future use. Learning is seen as the acquisition and
manipulation of information.
2.Memory: Memory plays a crucial role in learning according to cognitivism. Different types of memory,
including sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory, are involved in the learning
process. Strategies such as rehearsal, organization, and elaboration are seen as ways to enhance
memory and learning.
3.Schema Theory: Cognitivists propose that individuals organize information into mental structures
called schemas. Schemas are frameworks that help people interpret and understand new information
based on their existing knowledge and experiences.
4.Problem Solving: Cognitivism places a strong emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking.
Learning is not just about acquiring information but also about using that information to solve
problems and make decisions.
5.Metacognition: Cognitivism recognizes the importance of metacognition, which refers to thinking
about one's own thinking. It involves awareness and control of one's cognitive processes.
Metacognitive strategies, such as planning, monitoring, and evaluating, are considered essential for
effective learning.
6.Individual Differences: Cognitivism acknowledges that learners have unique cognitive structures,
experiences, and ways of processing information. It recognizes the importance of individual
differences in learning styles and abilities.

THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Constructivism Learning Theory

• Constructivism is a learning theory and educational

philosophy that emphasizes the active role of learners
in constructing their understanding and knowledge of
the world. It suggests that learning is a process of
actively engaging with information, making sense of it,
and integrating it into one's existing knowledge and
experiences.
• There are different variations of constructivism,
including cognitive constructivism (associated with Jean
Piaget) and social constructivism (linked to Lev
Vygotsky). Cognitive constructivism focuses on
THEORIES OF LEARNING
individual cognitive processes, while social
 Constructivism Learning Theory
1.Active Engagement: Learners are actively involved in the learning process. They
are not passive recipients of information but rather engage in activities that promote
exploration, inquiry, and problem-solving.
2.Prior Knowledge: Constructivism acknowledges the importance of learners' prior
knowledge and experiences. New information is assimilated and integrated into
existing cognitive structures, shaping and modifying one's understanding.
3.Social Interaction: Social interaction is considered crucial in the learning process.
Collaborative activities, discussions, and interactions with others help learners refine
their ideas and gain new perspectives.
4.Meaningful Learning: Constructivism emphasizes the importance of meaningful
learning over rote memorization. Learners are encouraged to relate new information
to their existing knowledge, making the learning more relevant and lasting.
5.Real-world Contexts: Learning is often more effective when situated in real-world
contexts. Constructivist approaches often involve authentic tasks and applications,
allowing learners to see the practical relevance of what they are learning.

THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Social Learning Theory

• Social learning theory is a psychological concept that emphasizes the

importance of observational learning, imitation, and modeling in the
development of behavior. This theory suggests that individuals learn by
observing the behaviors of others and the consequences of those
behaviors. The social learning theory was first introduced by Albert
Bandura in the 1960s and has since become a widely accepted
explanation for how people acquire new behaviors.
• Social learning theory has been applied to various fields, including
education, psychology, and criminology, to understand how behaviors are
acquired, maintained, and changed. It has implications for explaining not
only positive behaviors but also behaviors such as aggression, as
individuals can learn aggressive behaviors through observation and
imitation.
THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Social Learning Theory
1.Observational Learning: Individuals learn by watching the actions and behaviors of
others. This process involves paying attention to the model's behavior, remembering
what was observed, and reproducing the behavior.
2.Modeling: People are more likely to imitate behaviors that they perceive as being
rewarded or as having positive consequences. Models can be real or symbolic, such as
characters in the media or people in one's social environment.
3.Reinforcement: Reinforcement plays a crucial role in social learning. If a behavior is
followed by positive reinforcement, the individual is more likely to repeat that behavior.
Conversely, if a behavior is followed by negative consequences, the likelihood of
repeating that behavior decreases.
4.Cognitive Processes: Social learning theory also considers cognitive processes, such
as attention, memory, and motivation. Individuals may selectively attend to certain
behaviors based on their relevance or interest, and their ability to reproduce observed
behaviors is influenced by their cognitive capabilities.
5.Reciprocal Determinism: Bandura introduced the concept of reciprocal determinism,
which suggests that behavior, the environment, and personal factors all interact and
influence each other. This dynamic interaction contributes to the learning process.

THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Experiential Learning Theory

• Experiential learning theory is a learning philosophy that

emphasizes the importance of direct experience in the learning
process. It was developed by David Kolb, an American educational
theorist, in the 1970s. According to Kolb, learning is a process that
involves the transformation of experience through reflection and
active experimentation.
• Experiential learning is widely used in various educational
settings, and it is considered effective in promoting deep
understanding and practical application of knowledge. This
approach acknowledges that learning is a dynamic process
influenced by personal experiences and the interaction between
the learner and the environment.
THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Experiential Learning Theory

• The key elements of Kolb's experiential learning theory are:

1.Concrete Experience (CE): This is the initial, hands-on experience or
encounter with a particular situation or activity. It serves as the
foundation for the learning process.
2.Reflective Observation (RO): After the concrete experience, learners
are encouraged to reflect on their experience and consider what they
observed, felt, and experienced. Reflection helps in the
conceptualization of the experience.
3.Abstract Conceptualization (AC): Based on reflective observation,
learners then form abstract concepts and generalizations. They try to
understand the patterns, theories, or principles that can be derived from
their experiences.
4.Active Experimentation (AE): In this stage, learners apply their newly
formed concepts and theories to new situations or problems. This
involves testing ideas and putting theories into practice.

THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Humanistic Learning Theory

• Humanistic learning theory is a psychological and educational

perspective that emphasizes the inherent value and potential of
individuals. It emerged as a reaction to behaviorism and
psychoanalysis, seeking to focus on the holistic development of a
person, including their emotional, social, and cognitive aspects.
The humanistic approach to learning is associated with several key
theorists, including Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers.
• In the educational context, humanistic learning theories have
influenced pedagogical practices such as student-centered
learning, experiential education, and the promotion of a supportive
and inclusive classroom climate. The focus is on nurturing the
individual's potential, fostering creativity, and promoting a love for
learning.
THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Humanistic Learning Theory
• Key principles of humanistic learning theory include:

1.Self-Actualization: Humanistic theory posits that individuals have an

innate drive toward self-actualization, a process of realizing and fulfilling
one's potential. This includes the desire for personal growth, creativity,
and the pursuit of meaningful goals.
2.Holistic Perspective: Humanistic learning theory considers the whole
person, integrating emotional, social, and cognitive aspects of learning.
It emphasizes the interconnectedness of different dimensions of human
experience.
3.Personal Responsibility: Individuals are seen as active agents in their
own learning and personal development. Humanistic theory encourages
individuals to take responsibility for their choices, actions, and learning.
4.Experiential Learning: Learning is viewed as a personal and
subjective process, emphasizing the importance of direct experience.
Experiential learning involves engaging in activities that promote self-
discovery and understanding.
THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Humanistic Learning Theory
• Key principles of humanistic learning theory include:

1.Positive Regard: Humanistic theorists, particularly Carl Rogers,

emphasized the importance of positive regard in the learning process. This
involves creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where
learners feel accepted and valued.
2.Student-Centered Approaches: Humanistic learning theories often
advocate for student-centered and learner-focused approaches. This means
tailoring education to individual needs, interests, and learning styles.
3.Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: Abraham Maslow proposed a hierarchy of
needs, suggesting that individuals must fulfill basic physiological and
psychological needs before they can focus on higher-order needs, such as
self-actualization.
4.Unconditional Positive Regard: This concept, introduced by Carl
Rogers, emphasizes providing learners with acceptance and support
regardless of their performance. It contributes to a positive and trusting
learning environment.
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Humanistic Learning Theory

THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Connectivism Learning Theory

• Connectivism is a learning theory that emerged in the digital age,

primarily associated with George Siemens and Stephen Downes.
It addresses the impact of technology on how people learn and
acquire information in a networked, digital world. Connectivism
suggests that learning is not solely an individual process but is
distributed across networks of people and information sources.
• Connectivism is particularly relevant in the context of the digital
age, where information is abundant, rapidly changing, and
accessible through various technologies. It provides a framework
for understanding how individuals can harness the power of
networks and technology to learn and adapt in a knowledge-
intensive world.

THEORIES OF LEARNING
 Connectivism Learning Theory

• Key principles of connectivism include:

1.Learning in Networks: Connectivism emphasizes the idea that learning occurs
in networks. These networks can include people, technology, information, and
various online resources. The theory acknowledges that knowledge is distributed
and that connections between nodes in a network are crucial for learning.
2.Importance of Technology: Connectivism places a significant emphasis on the
role of technology in learning. The rapid growth of digital technologies, the
internet, and social media contribute to the creation of expansive learning
networks.
3.Knowledge as a Process: In connectivism, knowledge is not viewed as a static
entity but as a dynamic process. Learners engage with information in real-time,
adapting and evolving their understanding as they interact with diverse sources
and perspectives.
4.Principles of Complexity and Chaos: Connectivism draws on principles of
complexity theory and chaos theory. Learning is seen as a complex, adaptive
process where individuals navigate a chaotic and ever-changing information
landscape.

THEORIES OF LEARNING