Introduction
Ask students:
“Why do people learn things differently?”
Give a quick scenario:
- One student learns by thinking deeply (cognitive)
- One learns through rewards/punishments (behaviorism)
- One learns by watching others (social cognitive)
Tell students:
“Today we’re going to explore how people learn using three major theories.”
Task
Students will:
- Identify key features of Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory
- Compare and explain the differences between them
- Apply each theory to real-life classroom situations
Instructional Videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fc4qfsacCOY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7PqyBwjLaQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpA6RdE0aYo
Process
Step 1: Mini Lesson Explain each theory in simple terms
- Cognitive Psychology
Focus: Thinking, memory, problem-solving
→ Learning happens inside the brain - Behaviorism
Focus: Observable behavior
→ Learning happens through rewards and punishments - Social Cognitive Theory
Focus: Learning through observation and modeling
→ People learn by watching others
Step 2: Group Activity (10–15 min)
Put students in small groups. Give each group 3 scenario cards like:
- A student studies using flashcards
- A teacher gives candy for good behavior
- A child copies a friend’s behavior
Task: Groups decide which theory matches each scenario and explain why.
Step 3: Class Discussion (5–10 min)
Groups share answers. I clarifiy differences:
- Cognitive = thinking
- Behaviorism = rewards/punishments
- Social Cognitive = observing others
Evaluation
Exit Ticket
Students answer:
- One sentence describing each theory
- One example of each
Conclusion
Ask: “Which theory do you think you learn best from and why?”
Summarize:
- Learning isn’t one-size-fits-all
- These theories help teachers understand how to teach better