HOW DOES LEARNING OCCUR?

Educational psychology

JULY 16, 2023

SUBMITTED BY: SAMINA JAFRI
Submitted to: M.S Fatima
 Learning
Learning is the process of acquiring new knowledge, skills, attitudes, or
behaviors through study, experience, or teaching, resulting in a change in an
individual's understanding or abilities.

Importance of learning:
1. Learning is essential for personal growth, enabling individuals to acquire new
knowledge and skills.
2. It promotes adaptability, empowering individuals to navigate challenges and
succeed in a rapidly changing world.
3. Learning enhances career prospects, fosters personal fulfillment, facilitates
social interaction, and contributes to cognitive health.

Learning according to Psychology:

Learning in psychology is the process of acquiring knowledge or behavior
through experiences, associations, and modifications of mental or behavioral
processes.

There are several prominent learning theories in the field of psychology.

While the exact number may vary depending on how theories are classified and
categorized, here are some of the main learning theories:

Behaviorist Theory:

Behaviorist Theory suggests that learning occurs through the association between
environmental stimuli and behavioral responses. It involves two types of
conditioning: classical conditioning, where a neutral stimulus becomes associated
with a reflexive response, and operant conditioning, which links voluntary behavior
with consequences. Factors influencing learning include reinforcement, stimulus
intensity, and context. Behaviorist Theory downplays the role of internal mental
processes in learning. Memory is seen as the result of forming associations between
stimuli and responses, strengthened by repetition and reinforcement. Transfer of
learning happens when behaviors are applied to new contexts. Behaviorism is
suitable for explaining observable behaviors and has influenced computer-based
learning and simulations in education and training

Cognitive Theory:

Cognitive Theory emphasizes the role of cognitive processes in learning, including

attention, memory, and problem-solving. Learning involves acquiring, organizing,
and transforming knowledge, influenced by prior knowledge, motivation,
metacognition, and meaningfulness. Memory enables encoding, storage, and
retrieval of information. Transfer of learning occurs through recognizing similarities
and applying general principles. Cognitive Theory is applicable to complex learning
processes and informs instructional design and educational psychology. Technology
enhances cognitive engagement through interactive multimedia, simulations, and
adaptive learning platforms.

Constructivist Theory:

Constructivist Theory emphasizes learners' active role in constructing knowledge

through meaningful activities, reflection, and social interaction. Factors influencing
learning include prior knowledge, social context, motivation, and collaboration.
Memory is seen as an active process influenced by meaningfulness and relevance.
Transfer of learning occurs when learners apply knowledge to new contexts.
Constructivist Theory explains complex learning and is used in inquiry-based,
project-based, and problem-based learning. Technology supports active learning and
collaboration through online platforms, multimedia tools, simulations, and virtual
reality.

Social Learning theory:

Social Learning Theory, developed by Albert Bandura, highlights the role of social
interactions and observation in learning. Individuals learn by observing and
imitating behaviors of others, considering the consequences. Factors influencing
learning include role models, observer characteristics, and environmental context.
Memory stores observed behaviors and their outcomes. Transfer of learning occurs
when observed behaviors are applied in new contexts. The theory explains
observational learning, modeling, and social influences on behavior. Technology
facilitates observational learning through online platforms, video-based instruction,
collaborative environments, and simulations.

Connectivism Theory:

Connectivism Theory, proposed by George Siemens, focuses on learning in digital

environments, emphasizing networks, information access, and leveraging
technology. Learning occurs through connecting and interacting with information,
networks, and people. Factors influencing learning include filtering information,
making connections, and building networks. Memory is distributed across networks
and external resources. Transfer happens through pattern recognition and applying
knowledge in different contexts. Connectivism is suited for understanding learning
in the digital age. Technology supports collaboration, information sharing, and
networking. Digital resources and tools provide access to diverse information, while
technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence enhance personalized
learning experiences.

Adult learning Theory:

 There are several theories that address adult learning, and one prominent
theory is known as Andragogy, proposed by Malcolm Knowles. Andragogy focuses
specifically on the unique characteristics and needs of adult learners. It is based on
the assumption that adults have distinct motivations, experiences, and
responsibilities that shape their approach to learning.

It was proposed by Malcolm Knowles, focuses on the unique characteristics

of adult learners. Learning in Andragogy is self-directed and motivated by relevance
to goals and needs. Factors influencing learning include self-directedness, relevance,
prior knowledge, and readiness. Memory involves connecting new information to
prior knowledge. Transfer occurs when learning is applicable and meaningful.
Andragogy is applicable to self-directed, problem-solving, and real-life learning.
Technology supports adult learning through online platforms, digital resources,
social media, and simulations.

The choice of learning theory depends on several factors, including the nature of the
learning context, the characteristics and preferences of the learners, and the specific
learning objectives. Each learning theory has its strengths and applicability in
different situations. Here's a brief overview:

 Behaviorist Theory: Well-suited for learning that requires the acquisition of

specific behaviors or skills through structured reinforcement and repetition. It
can be effective for task-oriented and procedural learning.
 Cognitive Theory: Ideal for learning that involves understanding concepts,
problem-solving, and critical thinking. It emphasizes the role of mental
processes, memory, and cognitive strategies.
  Constructivist Theory: Suitable for learning that involves active engagement,
exploration, and the construction of knowledge through personal experiences
and interactions. It emphasizes learner autonomy and the social context of
learning.
 Social Learning Theory: Applicable for learning that involves observation,
modeling, and the influence of social factors on behavior. It focuses on
learning through social interaction and the influence of role models.
 Connectivism Theory: Relevant for learning in the digital age, where the
ability to navigate and leverage information networks is critical. It emphasizes
connectedness, networked learning, and utilizing digital technologies.
 Adult learners’ theory: The theory that best suits their characteristics and
needs is Andragogy. Andragogy acknowledges the unique attributes of adult
learners, such as their self-directedness, prior experiences, and relevance-
oriented learning. It emphasizes their motivation to learn and the application
of knowledge to real-life situations. Therefore, Andragogy is particularly
well-suited for adult learning contexts, such as adult education, professional
development, and workplace training.

The choice of the best learning theory depends on the specific learning
context, the goals of the learners, and the desired outcomes. In practice, a
combination or integration of multiple learning theories can be used to provide a
comprehensive and tailored learning experience.