Theoretical Perspectives

We will focus on four broad theories – three foundational (Behaviorism, Cognitivism and Constructivism) and one more contemporary one (Connectivism).

As you read the selection linked below, please consider the following question from the first reading: “Which theory is the most effective in fostering mastery of specific tasks by specific learners?”

Consider the role of the learning designer and the role of the learner in each approach. What are the beliefs held by the learning designer in each theory, and how does that impact the design for the learner? Determining which strategies to use in each specific context for each group of learners is a critical element of learning design.

Behaviourists work with reinforcement and feedback to develop habits in their learners. The key is to determine which reinforcements will be most effective for the learners. A learning design using this model might look like a series of similar prompts requiring responses from learners, with feedback given at each step.

Cognitivists work with the learner to help them uncover and use appropriate learning strategies and make connections to prior understandings. Strategies used in this approach would work to make the information meaningful and help the learner to organize it alongside their existing understandings.

Constructivists believe that learners make their own meaning and interpretations based on individual experiences and interactions. Each individual’s mental representation of knowledge is flexible and open to constant change. A constructivist learning design would require an individual to actively participate in the learning by trying something in a real world context.

Watch this short (under 3-minute video) for a brief overview of these learning theories

Connectivism is a relatively new learning theory that focuses on how learning happens through connections with people, information, and technology. Rather than seeing knowledge as something that exists only in our heads, connectivism suggests that knowledge is spread across networks, including digital tools and online communities, and that learning involves knowing how to find, evaluate, and use that information when needed (Siemens, 2005).

Each theory supports LEARNING. Your work as a learning designer is to determine how best to support the success of your learners by carefully selecting strategies, materials, and identifying the needs of your learners. Each approach highlights and hones different competencies for the learner.

Readings:

Read Chapter 11  (‘Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism’) from Foundations of Learning and Instructional Design Technology by Peggy A. Ertmer and Timothy J. Newby, which describes  describe the three learning theories in relation to the design of instructional situations or learning experiences in order to enable learning.

Read Chapter 17 (Connectivism) from 25 Years of EdTech, by Martin Weller. This reading will introduce you to the theory of Connectivism – a theory that we will build on further in Week 5. In this chapter, Weller links connectivism to practice – with course examples and evaluation of it on learners.

OR You can listen the audio version of this chapter!

 

References

Siemens, G. (2005). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. International journal of instructional technology and distance learning , 2 (1), 3-10.