Learning Theories Compilation (Mod. 2)

Since working on my undergraduate studies in the college of education, I have been inundated with learning theories and their ramifications on classroom learning.  At points in my college career, both undergraduate and postgraduate, and my professional career, I have wondered if the theories developed by old, dead psychologists had any merit in today’s rapidly changing classroom, and if the sheer number of learning theories was harmful and counterproductive.

Thankfully, it seems that I am not the only civilian philosopher that has contemplated these questions.  While I do not consider Bill Kerr to be a civilian philosopher, he raises a great question about the use of so many “_isms” to define learning theories.  One question we share specifically is the fact that there are so many learning theories, should we neglect the theories holistically and only pick and choose the aspects of each that fit our needs?

I know it may seem insensitive and calloused to take the hard work of these learning theorists and chop them up and use them piece mill, but it seems more logical and more practical to combine the best and most useful qualities of each.  In fact, Kerr seems to agree, stating “each _ism is offering something useful without any of them being complete or stand alone on their own right.”

What I found most interesting is the fact that Kapp explicitly matches the learning theories with activities that accentuate the purpose of each theory.  Kapp’s endingis perhaps most appropriate in his contention that learning is multi-layered and is not confined to one theory.  As mentioned previously, these learning theories can, and often do, seem distant and complex.  However, the beauty of each is that they have morphed and evolved as education has morphed and evolved. Because of the fluidity of learning, these theories will continue to morph and evolve, eventually forming one learning theory that encompasses all of the best characteristics of each theory.

Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved fromhttp://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved fromhttp://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/

Module 1- Learning Theory

Since being an undergraduate in the college of education at Valdosta State University, it has been impressed upon me the importance of establishing an educational philosophy.  This will guide my instruction and guide my interactions with my students, my coworkers, and any other stakeholders.  Equally as important as my educational philosophy is how I view students learning.  In fact, my vision and perspective on learning theory should fit into my educational philosophy.

As unique as the population is, the learning styles of individuals are just as unique.  When one explores the different learning theories that have developed since the 19th century, he or she will find numerous learning theories that describe various ways that humans interact with stimuli.  This is important because it shows that there are multiple paths to learning and no one theory is best for every individual.  It is impossible to identify a learning theory that can be used across a vast majority of students.  How students learn best is something that has to be figured out and is the key to unlocking the potential that all students have within.

More specifically, learning theory and has huge implications on educational technology as it opens up a wealth of opportunities for students to display their knowledge in various ways.  The video below from "The School of Rock" displays multiple ways of reaching students in the way that they learn best, and it also displays ways that students can adapt their learning to find the way they learn best.  While it is not likely that this video will find its way into mainstream college classrooms as a means to teach learning styles and theories, I found it beneficial as I search for new and innovative ways to teach all my students in a way that will maximize their learning.