Introduction
As a student who has witnessed different learning styles and environments, I have had a fair share of experiences regarding other learning theories. I decided to focus on this specific module as it encapsulates many essential learning strategies I applied during my studies. By diversifying my learning process with the application of different theories, I have been able to improve my learning habits and study habits efficiently. Regardless of when I first learned and started applying the following learning theories to my education, freshening up on the readings has refined my understanding of learning theories and contributed significantly to my learning goals.
Behaviourism
Behaviourism during my studies is one of the more common forms of learning theories applied in different environments. I was first exposed to behaviourism during my elementary years. For example, in fourth grade when there was a school-wide litter collecting program introduced. The premise of this program was that students would collect five pieces of litter each week and, if successful, would be rewarded with candy. This program encouraged good recycling habits and awarded students for positive contributions. I believe this example fits the definition of behaviourism as a rewarding driver is being applied to teach students about recycling which encourages positive contributions.
Cognitivism
Cognitivism is a learning theory that is one of the essential strategies for improving critical and analytical thinking. This approach is incredibly efficient and has developed my approach to learning. I was exposed to cognitivism during my later years of high school and all my university years. In my degree in Health Information Science, cognitivism spans all courses. Each lecture has a discussion period at the end where students are encouraged to elaborate and justify their thinking on the topics mentioned. Cognitive approaches are perfect for expanding what is taught to solidify information retention. Open discussions are an ideal example of cognitivism as it increases our understanding and allows us to process and manage information.
Constructivism
Constructivism was a learning strategy that I have just recently been introduced to. The idea of a constructivist approach categorizes knowledge as subjective, and the things we learn are created from our perception of the topic. Constructivism focuses heavily on the application of new knowledge. Constructivism was the most apparent in my computer science courses. For example, during one of my classes in introductory Python, my instructor would present code that is simple to solve using a specific solution. However, the students were barred from using this solution and were tasked with developing an alternative solution. This constructivist approach encouraged using previously taught concepts to deliver a solution. This is an effective method of constructivism as it encourages students to construct new solutions from knowledge previously learned.
Connectivism
Connectivism was most apparent during the online era of my time at university. As connectivism is digitally centred with a student-centred approach, there is some controversy surrounding the learning theory. The controversy stems from knowledge networks not being regulated, resulting in a chaotic environment. Personally, I have experienced connectivism in my learning through different computer science forums, as it is a great way to collaborate and learn from others. I believe that connectivism has the potential to be effective. However, the context in which it is being applied must be professional in that there are objective conclusions to specific ideas. Topics such as Math or Computer Science thrive with connectivism as both are highly objective. Whereas other topics where subjective opinions come into play can result in chaotic knowledge networks.
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