Learning Theories Comments

Behaviorism: Responses to Michelle on Behaviorism

You showed good comparison of the two. What are some activities you would do if you were using the behavorism approach versus the higher level types of activities you would do using the cognitivism approach? I presume it would be teacher driven. Tina

It sounds like behaviorism is sort of the opposite of the constructivist approach. Our technology book emphasizes that there must be a balance between the two. So, while I really don't agree with behaviorism, there seems to be a need for it when integrating technology. Way to get on the ball, first one to post! Valerie

Michelle, thanks for organizing our meeting.... I must point out that I do not agree with behaviorism in the grand scheme of things however I do see its positives with drill and practice when it comes to learning facts such as multiplication. For me, that is one way students will learn their facts. I get very frustrated when they come to me in fourth grade and do not know their facts and we are not able to move on to division. Ashley

As a whole, I do not agree with the behaviorist approach yet some things are best learned through drill and practice. I too become frustrated when students do not know their basic facts in the Upper grades. I enjoy teaching in a more open and free learning environment that allows students to develop and learn at will. (Michelle responding back)

I agree with both of you. Behaviorism does has its place, especially drill and practice. I explain to my parents again and again about math facts and drill & practice. There is no other way to obtain math facts. Tina

Response to Valerie on Social Constructivism:
Valerie:
I liked the way you broke down and answered the question. Social constructivism parallels beliefs of the Montessori classroom. I conduct many group based activities with various assessment variables. I will also measures children independently depending upon their strengths and weakness nesses.
What other activities would you include within this approach?
I do feel this approach to learning allows the child to feel more involved in their learning. Explorers of learning tend to retain more information and find learning more enjoyable on a daily basis.

Response to Tina on Constructivist Theory:
Tina:
Excellent Job! You did a wonderful job defining and then outlining the constructivist theory. I feel this information will be easy for Ashley to format into a final draft. I am going to go i and revise mine so my changes and revision are there for her.

Response to Ashley on Cognitive Theory
Nice job! Behaviorist and Cogniist are similar in their beliefs. Nice job in summarizing the cognitivist theory and including the theorist involved in their research.