Provide a brief summary of your understanding of the three learning theories introduced in the readings (behaviourism, cognitivism, and constructivism). How can you connect these learning theories with the models of curriculum (product, process, and praxis in particular) that we have discussed? What learning theories did you see reflected in your own schooling experiences?
Cognitive theory is based on new learnings and the mental processes students go through. This process allows teachers to see the first step of students learning to eventually comprehend and demonstrate.
Behaviourism theory is a theory based on rewards and punishment. This theory is used in classrooms when teachers are trying to achieve ‘good’ student behaviour. For example, when I was in elementary school my grade 1 teacher used colours and candy. If we displayed her definition of good behaviour at the end of the day we would be given green, yellow, or red as an overall evaluation of our behaviour displayed that day. If we were given green we were given a piece of candy.
The last theory is constructivism. Constructivism is centred around environmental and social influences. The theory examines human’s past experiences and the connection to their knowledge and knowledge they will gain in the future.
All of the learning theories are demonstrated in school. They may not all be used at once, but they are used at one time or another; weather that is in different subjects, different activities, or overall classroom concepts.
Thank you Mackenzie for taking the time to write this blog. I want to say that I really appreciate how you gave a brief summary of your understanding of the three learning theories. The way you explained cognitive theory was very to the point and clear which I really appreciated a nice and quick description. When you started talking about behaviourism I really appreciated how you wrote trying to achieve good student behaviour, along with how you had given an actual example from your past years in education as it really helped explain and show what behaviourism theory is with reward and punishment. I will agree with you on constructivism as well as it is 100% centred around environmental and social influences. Now I will say I think you are right in saying that not all of these are demonstrated at the same time, but they are all demonstrated in schools and in classrooms one time or another as they all come with their pros and cons.
Sincerely Charlee Anderson