The Three Major Theories of Leaning

2782 Words12 Pages
Running head: BEHAVIOURISM, COGNITIVISM & CONSTRUCTIVISM 1 The three major theories of learning: Behaviourism, Cognitivism and Constructivism. Running head: BEHAVIOURISM, COGNITIVISM & CONSTRUCTIVISM 2 Abstract Learning theories provide a conceptual framework for interpreting the examples of learning that are observed and they direct our attention to those variables that are crucial in finding solutions. These learning theories (Behaviourism, Cognitivism and Constructivism) provide structured foundations for planning and conducting instructional design activities and they have had significant influence on the thinking and approaches used by proponents in this field of study. The information presented provides the reader with a comparison as well as contrast of these three different viewpoints and illustrates how these differences might be translated into practical applications in an early childhood setting. Keywords: Schemata Tabula rasa Ever-changing Reinforcement Cultural Dynamic Running head: BEHAVIOURISM, COGNITIVISM & CONSTRUCTIVISM 3 The three major theories of learning: Behaviourism, Cognitivism & Constructivism Webster’s Dictionary defines learning as “the act of one that learns; knowledge of skill acquired by instruction or study; modification of a behavioural tendency by experience”. Learning is often defined as a change in behaviour (Birkenholz, 1999) in the learner, or it can be thought of as a process in which influences and experiences are acquired and enhance our knowledge, skills, practices and views. Learning can also be defined as a change in a learner’s schemata. What is a theory? (Dorin, Demmin & Gabel) According to the Oxford Dictionary a theory is “a supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something,

More about The Three Major Theories of Leaning

Open Document