Constructivism
learning theory is based on the idea that students actually create their own learning based
on their previous experiences.
is a student-centered learning theory that is based on cumulatively building
understandings from students' prior experiences and knowledge
Behaviorism
defines learning as observable behavioral change that occurs in response to environmental
stimuli.
First on our education theories list is behaviorism. Behaviorism in education
definition is a pedagogical theory that defines learning as a process of knowledge
acquisition that takes place through observation (i.e., based on objectively quantifiable
events rather than introspective psychology).
Cognitivism
Cognitivism, as suggested by the name, is one of the educational theories and the learning
theory that focus on cognitive processes of the mind such as thinking, memory, recall, and
problem-solving. Similar to behaviorism, cognitivism is about learning via association;
however, the emphasis is placed on internal processing rather than the external
environment.
Humanism
Humanism approaches learning and education with a growth mindset. Similar to
constructivism, humanism is a school of educational thought that is inherently studentcentered. Humanistic education derives many of its values from the intellectual movement
of the seventeenth century, where philosophes such as Voltaire (1642-1778) believed that
humans were born with innate potential.
Humanistic education, therefore, focuses on fostering individual potential and personal
growth. Humanism tends to be even more individual-focused than constructivism, with an
emphasis placed on choice and autonomy. Educators adopting a humanist approach aim
to foster self-directed learning among students, in the belief intrinsic motivation to learn
comes from this. In order to support self-directed learning, teaching students how to learn
becomes a key priority. Along the same lines, humanist educators believe that learners
should be given opportunities to evaluate their own learning, whether that be through
formalized self-assessment or descriptive, reflective journaling.
Connectivism
Connectivism is inherently a future-focused learning theory and education of theory. It is a
relatively recent pedagogical view that takes into account the changing nature of
knowledge acquisition in our digital age. In contrast to constructivism, which revolves
around what a learner already knows, connectivism pinpoints what a learner needs to
know, and targets the learning at a relevant time of need.
While connectivists generally believe that expanding knowledge is ultimately more
important than taking into account prior knowledge, connectivism allows learners to
situate new knowledge within existing schemas of understanding. Similar to humanism,
connectivism empowers students to make their own learning decisions. Students are aided
in this learning process by technology, which assists in threading together different strands
of knowledge.
Experientialism
also shapes theories of organizational learning, including workplace design and
professional training. Such programming