"How Do We Learn?"

Introduction

Imagine you’ve been hired as a consultant for a new middle school that wants to design the “perfect” learning environment. The problem? The teachers can’t agree on which learning theory should guide their instruction. Some believe learning happens inside the mind. Others say it’s all about behavior. Still others argue that students learn by watching each other. Your mission is to investigate three major learning theories: Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory, and help the school decide how each one can shape teaching and learning. This WebQuest will guide you through the theories, challenge you to compare them, and help you create a final product that demonstrates your understanding.

Task

You will create a three‑panel digital infographic that:

  • Explains each theory in clear, student‑friendly language

  • Identifies key theorists

  • Shows how learning happens according to each theory

  • Gives real classroom examples

  • Highlights similarities and differences

Your infographic should be visually appealing, accurate, and easy to understand.

This is a group assignment. Students will work in groups of 4 to complete the WebQuest and collaboratively create one infographic.

You all will be responsible for assigning roles in your group. (Research Leader, Comparison analyst, Design & Layout Specialist, and Quality Checker.) 

Evaluation

You will be assessed by using a rubric cube by your teacher at the end of your assignment.  

Rubric Cube
content accuracy  All three theories are explained clearly, accurately, and with strong detail Most information is accurate; minor errors do not affect understanding.   /30 points

Comparison of theories

 Provides a clear, insightful comparison showing similarities and differences. Provides a basic comparison with some similarities and differences.   /50 points
Visual Design  The infographic is visually appealing, well‑organized, and easy to follow. Provides a basic comparison with some similarities and differences.   /10 points
Clarity Writing is clear, polished, and free of errors. The writing is mostly clear, with minor errors.   /10points

 

Conclusion

You’ve explored three major theories that shape modern education. You’ve examined how we think, how we behave, and how we learn from others. Understanding these theories helps teachers design better instruction and helps you understand how you learn best.

To extend your thinking:

  • Which theory do you see most often in your own classrooms?

  • How might technology change the way these theories are applied?

  • Can a teacher use all three theories at once?

Food for thought: How might these theories apply outside school in sports, workplaces, or social media?