Learning theory in review!

Now that I have a much better understanding of the various learning styles I have a completely different view point with regard to learning theories and instructional design. From the earliest theory of behaviorism to the more modern theory of connectivism, the field of Instructional Design can learn and benefit from each of these. I was already familiar with Pavlov’s theory with regard to rewarding behavior that is considered “positive” or “appropriate” behavior but most other theories were new to me. I now have a new understanding of the role of these theories and how some of them may affect the ID field. The theory I can most relate to is the Adult learning theory. As a mom of 4 and a husband who works crazy long hours, I have found that the only opportunity for me to further my education is through adult education. Connectivism has allowed me to accomplish this!

Connectivism is considered a learning theory for the digital age. This theory has allowed individuals from all around the world to come together for a common purpose and begin learning from one another in a way that would never have been possible before the digital age. I have been enrolled in school with students from countries that I have only read about. This has allowed me to gain knowledge and experience from individuals that have a very different culture. This allows for very interesting discussions. I have come to realize that we are all a product of our environment. The way I view/handle a particular situation will be quite different from another. For example; I look at my 7 y/o who still struggles with counting money. Then I look at children in other countries such as Italy. While vacationing there I saw many young children, around the age of 7, selling various items on the street. They handled money like an adult. Education is no different. Through technology I am able to gain knowledge from others that they gained due to their environmental experiences that would never have been possible with the internet!

I am excited to move forward in this degree program. I believe it will be an interesting journey in which I will learn a great deal not only about the field of ID but about individuals and what makes us tick as well.

Mindmapping

Cognitive and information processing

This article was not quite as easy to follow as my previous one had been, however I did feel this article provided a great understanding of the background of cognitive and information processing. Begining in the 1890's with Binet and Baldwin cognitive development was first discovered and has continued to grow over the past 100 plus years. In recent years, a new approach, information processing, began to catch peoples interest and has really helped this area of study to grow.

This site further explains the connection that earlier educators used when comparing the human brain to that of a computer, which we now know is not the most accurate way of relating the brain. However, this connection does help to provide a visual with regard to the inner workings of the mind.

What I found most interesting though was how the site took all this information and tied to together when explaining edcational implications. We are able to take the gained knowledge and adapt instruction to meet the individual needs of the children and optimizing their learning abilities. This is an excellent web site!!

http://education.stateuniversity.com/pages/1910/Developmental-Theory-COGNITIVE-INFORMATION-PROCESSING.html

During my research for sites related to problem solving of the brain and learning, I came across an article by Mary Ellen Guffey called Five Steps to Better Critical-Thinking, Problem-Solving, and Decision-Making Skills. The first thing I liked was the ease of reading. I am just starting in the field of ID so I need things explained in laymans terms. This site very clearly lays out the following steps:

1. Identify and clarify the problem
2. Gather information
3. Evaluate the evidence
4. Consider alternatives and implications
5. Choose and implement the best alternative

This site not only defines the ways for problem solving but also provides an understanding on how to ensure the changes are effective.

I found this site to be VERY useful. It can be located at the link below.

http://www.asa3.org/ASA/education/think/ps-guffey.htm

Helpful ID sites:

The first site I would like to discuss can be located at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiLLz1SaxGc&feature=player_embedded

I found this video to be very informative. It provides a complete break down of the role of an ID. There are several phases that occur over the course of a project, these are; analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. This video explains in great detail what each phase consists of as well as an explanation of the importance of each phase in the completion and success of the project.

ADDIE