Learning Theories
Introduction
Learning theories are conceptual frameworks that describe how information is absorbed, processed, and retained during learning. Cognitive, emotional, and environmental influences, as well as prior experience, all play a part in how understanding, or a world view, is acquired or changed, and knowledge and skills retained. Learning theories have two chief values according to Hill (2002). One is in providing us with vocabulary and a conceptual framework for interpreting the examples of learning that we observe. The other is in suggesting where to look for solutions to practical problems.
Behaviorist Learning Theories
The behaviorist learning theories focus on the way that behavior is learned from the environment. They are based on the belief that learning occurs as the individual acts upon the environment. The learner is essentially passive, responding to environmental stimuli. The learner starts off as a clean slate and behavior is shaped through positive or negative reinforcement. Both positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement increase the probability that the antecedent behavior will happen again. In contrast, punishment (both positive and negative) decreases the likelihood that the antecedent behavior will happen again.
Classical Conditioning
Classical conditioning is a technique used in behavioral training in which a naturally occurring stimulus is paired with a response. Then, a previously neutral stimulus is paired with the naturally occurring stimulus. Eventually, the previously neutral stimulus comes to evoke the response without the presence of the naturally occurring stimulus. The two elements are then known as the conditioned stimulus and the conditioned response.
Operant Conditioning
Operant conditioning is a method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior. Through operant conditioning, an association is made between a behavior and a consequence for that behavior.
Cognitive Learning Theories
Cognitive learning theories are credited to Jean Piaget. They are based on the perspective that individuals process the information they receive, rather than merely responding to stimuli. This approach has been influential in the educational field, as it has laid the groundwork for research in cognitive psychology and cognitive learning theory in educational practice. Here, the focus is on the nature of knowledge and how humans come to know things.
Information Processing
Information processing views the learner as a processor of information, in much the same way that a computer takes in information and follows a program to produce an output. The information processing approach to cognition and cognitive development, often equated with cognitive psychology, is characterized by a host of concepts and assumptions that describe and explain human cognitive competence and its growth.
Constructivism
Constructivism is a type of learning theory that explains human learning as an active attempt to construct meaning in the world around us. Constructivists believe that learning is more active and self-directed than either behaviorism or cognitive theory would suggest.
Social Learning Theories
Social learning theories help us to understand how people learn in social contexts (learn from each other) and informs us on how we, as teachers, construct active learning communities.
Social Constructivism
As an extension of constructivism, social constructivism suggests that we learn from our interactions with others in a social context. It suggests that the social environment plays a critical role in the process of learning and understanding.
Connectivism
Connectivism is a learning theory for the digital age. Learning has changed over the last several decades. The theories of behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism provide an effect view of learning in many environments. They fall short, however, when learning moves into informal, networked, technology-enabled arenas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning theories are the main guide for educational systems planning in the classroom and clinical training included in nursing. The teachers by knowing the general principles of these theories can use their knowledge more effectively according to various learning situations.