Module 2

Module 2 Discussion

Shirley Brady

As we continue to find ways in which students’ learning occurs cognitivism supplies us with more depth of knowledge concerning this matter.  According to Driscoll the cognitive information processing view is that, the human learner is conceived to be a processor of information in much the same way a computer.  Once knowledge transpires, the information is believed to have been contributed from its surroundings, then developed and stored up in recollection, and production occurs thorough a discovered ability. (Driscoll, 2005)

Cognitivism:

What insights does cognitivism provide to understand and predict how people learn?

The process of acquiring knowledge by the use of logic, perception, or observation has gained the interest of many people to seek ways in finding out how people learn.  Cognition is understood to be a shared and positioned action. The insight in which it provides is that most learning engages connection established through a continuous series of recurrences. It also emphasizes feedback needs to provided continually concerning the accuracy of an answer.

Learning Theory:

How does cognitive learning theory change the way you might approach a learning situation in educational technology?

Teachers are being required to learn new strategies and methods for teaching.  A very critical factor concerning technology is how can learning not only be enhanced but how can the knowledge the student already has attained be connected to new theories and thoughts.  Another vital factor is the point of view of the teacher.   This will determine whether are not the use of technology will be meaningful and serve its intended purpose.

Reference:
Driscoll, M. P. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Article: Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/

Module 1 Blog Topic-EDUC7105

What are your beliefs about how people learn best?  What is the purpose of learning theory in educational technology?

My belief of how people learn best is through a multiplicity of ways along with being able to exhibit their wealth of understanding.  In my twenty-seven year teaching tenure I see many students have developed an unenthusiastic attitude toward learning.  As a teacher it is my responsibility to develop an understanding of how the students learn and find a teaching method that is designed to meet their individual learning styles.  This can only be done through differentiation of instructions.  In my opinion when a variety of teaching strategies and other resources are used for students to exhibit their understanding are provided, this creates a more positive attitude in students wanting to receive knowledge.  They can then see the importance of intellectual knowledge and how they can benefit from attaining this knowledge.

In my opinion the purpose of a learning theory in educational technology is for teachers to be knowledgeable of all the available resources to enhance instructions and allow students to achieve their potential or even exceed it.