S_Moore_UTMPC How Do We Learn?

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why you learn best by doing, while your friend learns better by watching videos? Or why stickers, grades, or praise might motivate some students more than others? The way we learn is complex—and psychologists have developed different theories to explain it.

In this WebQuest, you will become an expert on three major learning theories: Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory. You’ll explore how each theory explains how people learn, and then you'll create a powerful infographic or poster to teach others what you've learned.

Task

Your task is to work in small groups to research, analyze, and compare the three major learning theories. Then, you’ll create a visually engaging infographic or poster that explains the key features, theorists, examples, and classroom applications of each theory. Your final product should be informative, organized, and easy for your classmates to learn from.

Roles (if group work)

Each group will have 3–4 students. Suggested roles:

  • Researcher: Digs into theory details and finds reliable sources.

  • Designer: Organizes layout and creates visual elements.

  • Content Manager: Makes sure content is accurate and aligned.

  • Presenter (optional): Prepares and delivers a short explanation of your infographic.

Process

 

  1. Background Reading

    Explore these topics to learn about each theory:

  2. Comparison Organizer

    Fill out a chart comparing:

    • Key Theorists

    • How Learning Happens

    • Real-Life Classroom Applications

    • Pros and Cons of Each Theory

  3. Brainstorming & Planning

    Sketch out your infographic or poster layout. Decide what goes where and which visuals you'll use (e.g., charts, symbols, bullet points).

  4. Create the Product

    Use Canva, Google Slides, PowerPoint, or art supplies to create your infographic/poster. Make it clear, creative, and educational.

  5. Review & Revise

    Use the rubric below to check your work. Revise for clarity, visuals, accuracy, and grammar.

  6. Presentation 

    Present your infographic briefly to the class or in a gallery walk format.

Evaluation

Criterion

(Score at 0 if there is no evidence)

 

Below Expectations

(1)

Meets Expectations

(3)

Exceeds Expectations

(5)

Score

Content Accuracy

Incomplete coverage of theories.

Most information is accurate, but some information is unclear/missing key points.

All information is accurate, and clearly explains all 3 theories.

 

Comparison & Analysis

Comparison is weak or absent. 

Comparison is attempted but lacks clarity. 

Theories are compared with clear differences noted, and higher-level thinking is shown.

 

Visual Design  

Disorganized and difficult to follow visually.

Readable but has minor layout issues.

The design is visually engaging and easy to read.

 

 

 Mechanics

 

Includes many noticeable errors that interfere with understanding.

Has minor errors that do not detract from clarity. 

No spelling, grammar, or formatting errors.

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 _ /20

 

Conclusion

 

Think about how each theory could affect your future classroom.

Write a short reflection: 

  • Which theory do you most relate to and why?

  • How might you use all three theories when teaching different kinds of learners?

  • What surprised you during this project?

    Now that you've explored how we learn, consider:

  • How might these theories explain learning in the digital age?

  • Can one theory fully explain all learning, or do we need all three?

  • How would these theories apply to adult learning or special education?