class 6 highlights of theoretical orientations to adult learning
TRANSCRIPT
Behavioral Learning Theory
Three basic assumptions:
Learning results in a change in behavior
Environment shapes behavior
Principles of contiguity and reinforcement
Behavioral Theory Today
Measurable goals and objectives
Competency based instruction
Outcomes focused
Computer assisted instruction
Instructor accountability
Human performance technology (HPT)
Cognitive Learning Theory
Defined learning as reorganization of experience to make sense of stimuli from the environment Focuses on mental processes
Accounts for insight
Locus of control for learning is not in the environment, but internal to the learner
Evidences of Cognitive Learning Theory in Use Today
Research on cognitive development in adulthood
Learning how to learn research (metacognition)
Study of learning processes as a function of age
Humanist Learning Theory
Humans are in control of their own destinies with unlimited potential for growth
Motivation to learn is intrinsic
Goal of learning is self-actualization
Influences of Humanistic Thought in Learning Theory
Andragogy (Knowles, Houle, Tough)
Personal growth movement
Self-directed learning
Teacher as “facilitator”
Developer of talent through coaching, mentoring, role modeling
Embodied, spiritual, narrative learning
Who was Abraham Maslow?
Famous for concept of a hierarchy of human needs
Who was Carl Rogers?
Known for “client-centered” or non- directive therapy. Education adopted his views in “learner-centered” teaching
Social Cognitism Learning Theory
Draws from both behaviorist and cognitivist perspectives
Belief that behavior is a function of the person and the environment
Learning through observation and imitation of others
Occurs in social context
Evidences of Social Cognitivism in Use TodayIncreasing awareness of importance of
context to learning
Vicarious learning through role modeling
Mentoring
Self-efficacy research
Situated Learning and Social Construction of Learning Theory Participation in communities of
practice
Novice to expert continuum
Cognitive apprenticeships
Tool-dependent
Learning “in situ”
Constructivist Learning Theory
Learning as meaning-making
Meaning actively constructed through knowledge “structures”
Internal cognitive activity
Central role of experience
Developmental throughout the lifespan
Evidences of Constructivism in Use Today
Experiential learning
Self-directed learning / learner autonomy
Reflective practice
Perspective transformation and transformative learning
Critical Theory
Goals of learning is to free individuals from oppression
Social reform perspective
Challenges unexamined assumptions about oppressive nature of social structures
Evidences of Critical Theory in Use Today
Heightened sensitivity to diversity issues in organizations: race, gender, etc.
Awareness of praxis (the power of action) to increase opportunities for the disadvantaged to have a place in society
Encourages “voice”
Critical Theory: Postmodern Perspectives
Examines exploitative nature of social structures from power perspective as well as race, gender, sexual orientation, etc.
Poststructurist feminist literature
Gender as socially constructed