Learning Theories week 3

P/V/S remix

Q1.  List the three learning theories included under cognitive learning theory.

a.     This is from the first level of Blooms taxonomy.  It is simply to recall from memory a short list of three theories from our reading.

b.     The three theories are Behavioral Learning Theory, Cognitive Learning Theory, and Constructivist Learning Theory.

Q2.  Prepare a quick lesson on a topic of choice that results in “thorough learning” (scaffolding). 

a.     This is a level three (application) question.  It asks me to take the information I’ve learned and apply it to my own teaching methods.

b.     I am picturing a lesson on the order of operations.  It would begin by teaching the separate functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc. and then once those ‘platforms’ are mastered we scaffold on top of them with PEMDAS and the order we perform them in.  We could finish the lesson up with a complex equation involving multiple operations.

Q3.  By using the information you have up to this point, do you believe that education programs are built to teach students at the developmental levels, which are age appropriate, or do you believe there is a better way?  Make sure to provide evidence.

a.     This is definitely a level 6 question.  I am taking the thoughts of one person, Piaget in this case, and I am analyzing and critiquing their work. 

b.     I believe that there is definitely a better way to structure education today.  All people learn at different levels and grouping them into black and white areas is harmful to anyone that may fall outside of that group.  Students who are ahead of their peers will have to slow their learning to fall into their ‘norm’ for their age.  There are many stories of child prodigies who excel well past their peers and even most adults.  On the other hand there are students who will never develop past a certain point.