Introduction
Have you ever noticed that everyone seems to learn differently? Have you ever wondered why that is? Some students learn best by thinking through problems on their own and others thrive when they are rewarded for their efforts. Some students seem to learn simply by watching and copying what others do. Understanding how people learn isn't just interesting; it's essential for creating classrooms, workplaces, and communities that help everyone succeed.
Today, we will dive into three major theories of learning: Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory.
Cognitive Psychology: learning occurs by actively thinking, processing, and understanding information
Behaviorism: learning occurs through interaction with the environment as the result of a response to a stimulus. Only deals with observable behaviors.
Social Cognitive Theory: learning occurs within a social construct by observing others, interacting with the environment and the environment interacting reciprocally, and observing the responses to one's behavior.
Task
The student's job will be to create a school where they have the opportunity to shape it from the ground up in a way that every student learns, grows, and thrives. To do this, students must first have a grasp of Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory. Students will research each theory and analyze how each theory explains how students learn. Students will then take what they have learned and use it to form a "Learning Blueprint" for how their school will use each theory to help students learn. This should be a visual and written plan that shows how their school will apply each of Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory to real classroom experiences.
Students will be able to present their "Learning Blueprint" as a physical/digital poster, a slideshow or prezi presentation, or an infographic document.
Their "Learning Blueprint" has to
- Explain each theory simply and clearly
- Give at least 1 real-world classroom application of each learning theory
- Be neat, well-organized, easy to understand
Process
- Build up a knowledge base
- Watch the linked videos to gain a simple understanding of each theory.
- Read a short summary of each theory: Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory.
- Take short notes that highlight key themes for each of the theories
- How does each theory explain how learning occurs?
- What would learning using this theory look like in a classroom?
- Analyze Real-World Examples
- Think about and list some examples of common classroom practices with which theory they use.
- How does each example show the theory in action?
- What are each theory's strengths/ What are the challenges?
- Think about how they learn best personally.
- What are techniques/methods that work for them?
- Think about and list some examples of common classroom practices with which theory they use.
- Design Your "Learning Blueprint"
- Imagine you are designing the learning experience at a new school.
- Decide how you could apply each theory to your school setting.
- Choose a format for your blueprint: Poster, PowerPoint, or Infographic.
- For each theory, include:
- A simple explanation
- At least one real-world example or classroom strategy that fits the theory.
- Proofread and Review
- Check that your project:
- Explains all three theories clearly.
- Pairs each theory with a real-life example.
- Is neat, organized, and creative
- Use the provided Rubric to assess your project prior to submission.
- Check that your project:
- Submission and Exit Ticket
- Turn in your final "Learning Blueprint"
- Answer the following question: How might understanding these theories help you as a student, teacher, or leader?
Evaluation
Webquest (Learning Blueprint) Rubric
|
Criterion (Score at 0 if there is no evidence)
|
Below Expectations (1) |
Meets Expectations (3) |
Exceeds Expectations (5) |
Score |
|
Understanding of Learning Theories |
Theories are missing, unclear, or copied without real understanding |
Most theories (2/3) are explained clearly; minor errors. |
All three theories are explained clearly, accurately, and in your own words. |
|
|
Application to Real-World Examples |
Examples are weak, unclear, or missing. |
Some good examples; may lack depth or detail. |
Strong, thoughtful real-world examples for each theory. |
|
|
Reflection |
Reflection is missing or superficial. |
Reflection answers questions but lacks depth. |
Thoughtful reflection that shows insight and personal connection. |
|
|
Creativity and Organization
|
Project is confusing, messy, or incomplete. |
Project is organized but may lack creativity or polish. |
Project is highly creative, professional, and easy to follow. |
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL |
|
Conclusion
Learning isn't a one-size-fits-all experience where blanket approaches garner positive results. We have learned through this activity and our research about three major learning theories; Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory; and analyzed how each theory grants a unique view as to how people can grow, learn, and succeed.
Reflection Questions
- Which theory do you think would be the hardest to apply in a real classroom and why?
- Could a design be made that incorporates all 3 theories? What would it look like?
- How might understanding these learning theories help you outside of school?