Learning Theories and

Instructional
Technologies
Week 2
Learning Theories and Instructional Technologies

Behaviorism: Behaviorism is a theory of learning that focuses on

observable behaviors and how they are shaped by reinforcement and
punishment.
Cognitivism: Cognitivism is a theory of learning that focuses on how
people process information, including how they store, retrieve, and use
knowledge.
Constructivism: Constructivism is a theory of learning that focuses on how
learners construct their own knowledge through active engagement with
their environment.
Learning Theories and Instructional Technologies

Social learning theory: Social learning theory emphasizes the importance

of social interaction and observation in learning.
Experiential learning theory: Experiential learning theory is based on the
idea that learning is best achieved through doing.
Connectivism: Connectivism is a relatively new theory of learning that
focuses on how learners connect with and learn from others in a
networked world.
Examples

Behaviorism
Instructional technologies can be used to
create educational games and simulations that
provide learners with immediate feedback and
rewards. For example, a math learning game
might provide learners with points or badges for
completing correct answers.
Examples

Cognitivism
Instructional technologies can be used to design
educational software that helps learners to develop
and use mental representations of information. For
example, a science learning program might use
interactive diagrams and animations to help learners
to understand complex concepts.
Examples

Constructivism
Instructional technologies can be used to design online
learning environments that provide learners with
opportunities to explore, experiment, and collaborate
with others. For example, a social studies learning
platform might allow learners to work together on group
projects or participate in online discussions.
Behaviorism

● A theory of learning that focuses on

observable behaviors and how they are
shaped by reinforcement and
punishment.
● Behaviorist learning theories are based on
the idea that all behaviors are learned and
can be modified through conditioning.
Behaviorism - Key Principles

● Conditioning: The process of learning to associate one

event with another.
● Reinforcement: A consequence that increases the likelihood
that a behavior will be repeated.
● Punishment: A consequence that decreases the likelihood
that a behavior will be repeated.
● Shaping: The process of gradually reinforcing desired
behaviors until they become more complex.
● Extinction: The process of gradually decreasing
reinforcement for a behavior until it stops occurring.
Behaviorism and instructional technologies

● Educational games and simulations

● Computer-assisted instruction (CAI)
programs
● Learning management systems (LMSs)
● Adaptive learning programs
Examples of behaviorist instructional technologies

Educational games and simulations

● Opportunities to practice behaviors and receive immediate
feedback and rewards.
● For example, a vocabulary game might provide learners with points
or badges for completing correct answers.
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) programs
● Educational content in a structured format and opportunities to
practice and receive feedback.
● For example, a CAI program might teach learners about the solar
system by presenting them with information and interactive
activities.
Examples of behaviorist instructional technologies

Learning management systems (LMSs)

● Instructors create and deliver online courses,
track learner progress, and provide feedback.
Adaptive learning programs
● Using artificial intelligence to tailor the learning
experience to each individual learner's needs.
● For example, an adaptive learning program might
adjust the difficulty of the questions it presents to
learners based on their performance.
Benefits of using behaviorist instructional
technologies

● Behaviorist instructional technologies can be effective for

teaching a variety of skills and knowledge.
● They can provide learners with immediate feedback and
rewards, which can help to increase motivation and
engagement.
● They can be used to individualize the learning experience
for each learner.
● They can be used to deliver instruction in a variety of
settings, including in the classroom, at home, and on the go.
Challenges of using behaviorist instructional
technologies

● Behaviorist instructional technologies can be less

effective for teaching complex skills and knowledge
that require higher-order thinking skills.
● They can be repetitive and boring for some learners.
● They can be difficult to design and develop effectively.
● They can be expensive to implement and maintain.
How to use behaviorist instructional technologies
effectively
● Choose the right instructional technology for the
specific learning objectives, the target learners, and
the learning environment.
● Use a variety of instructional strategies to keep
learners engaged and motivated.
● Provide learners with opportunities to practice and
receive feedback on their performance.
● Individualize the learning experience for each learner
as much as possible.
Using behaviorist instructional technologies

● Behaviorist instructional technologies can be used to

teach a variety of skills and knowledge, but they are
most effective for teaching simple and repetitive
tasks.
● When used effectively, behaviorist instructional
technologies can help to improve learner motivation,
engagement, and achievement.
Cognitivism

● A theory of learning that focuses on how people

process information, including how they store,
retrieve, and use knowledge.
● Cognitivist learning theories are based on the idea
that people are active learners who construct their
own knowledge by interacting with their
environment.
Key principles of cognitivism

● Mental representations: The way that people store

and organize information in their minds.
● Schemata: Mental frameworks that people use to
understand and organize new information.
● Cognitive processing: The process of acquiring,
transforming, storing, retrieving, and using
information.
● Prior knowledge: The knowledge and experiences
that people bring to a learning situation.
● Active learning: The process of constructing
knowledge through interaction with the environment.
Cognitivism and instructional technologies

Educational software:
● Information and activities that are designed to help learning
and developing cognitive skills.
Intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs):
● These programs use artificial intelligence to provide learners
with personalized instruction.
● ITSs can track learners' progress and provide them with
feedback and guidance based on their individual needs.
● For example, an ITS might teach learners how to solve math
problems by providing them with step-by-step instructions and
practice problems.
Cognitivism and instructional technologies

Simulation-based learning environments:

● These environments allow learners to practice skills
and knowledge in a safe and controlled setting.
● For example, a flight simulator can allow learners to
practice flying an airplane without the risk of
crashing.
Cognitivism and language teaching through
instructional technologies
Using educational software to teach grammar and vocabulary
● For example, a software program might use games, simulations, and other
activities to help learners practice and master grammar concepts.
Using intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs) to provide personalized instruction
● ITSs can be used to provide learners with personalized instruction in
grammar, vocabulary, and other areas of language learning.
● ITSs can track learners' progress and provide them with feedback and
guidance based on their individual needs.
Using simulation-based learning environments to allow learners to practice
speaking and listening skills
● Simulation-based learning environments can be used to allow learners to
practice speaking and listening skills in a safe and controlled setting.
● For example, a simulation-based learning environment might allow learners
to practice having conversations with native speakers.
Benefits of using cognitivist instructional
technologies

● Cognitivist instructional technologies can be effective for

teaching a variety of skills and knowledge, including complex
skills and knowledge that require higher-order thinking skills.
● They can help learners to develop their cognitive skills, such as
problem-solving skills, critical thinking skills, and metacognitive
skills.
● They can provide learners with personalized instruction that is
tailored to their individual needs.
● They can be used to create engaging and interactive learning
experiences.
Challenges of using cognitivist instructional
technologies

● Cognitivist instructional technologies can be difficult and

expensive to design and develop effectively.
● They can be complex for some learners to use.
● They can be less effective for teaching skills and knowledge
that require physical practice.
How to use cognitivist instructional technologies
effectively

● Choose the right instructional technology for the specific

learning objectives, the target learners, and the learning
environment.
● Use a variety of instructional strategies to keep learners
engaged and motivated.
● Provide learners with opportunities to practice and receive
feedback on their performance.
● Individualize the learning experience for each learner as much
as possible.
Constructivism

● A theory of learning that focuses on how learners

construct their own knowledge through active
engagement with their environment.
● Constructivists believe that learners are not empty
vessels waiting to be filled with knowledge, but
rather that they are active learners who construct
their own understanding through experience.
Key principles of constructivism

● Prior knowledge: Learners come to the learning situation with

prior knowledge and experiences that shape how they learn
new information.
● Active learning: Learners construct their own knowledge
through active engagement with their environment.
● Social learning: Learners learn from each other through
collaboration and discussion.
● Authentic learning: Learners learn best when they are engaged
in real-world, meaningful tasks.
Constructivism and instructional technologies

● Constructivist learning theories have been used to design and

develop a wide range of instructional technologies, including:
● Collaborative learning platforms
● Problem-based learning environments
● Inquiry-based learning environments
● Simulations and games
Examples of constructivist instructional
technologies
● Collaborative learning platforms: These platforms allow learners to
work together on projects, share ideas, and discuss concepts. For
example, a collaborative learning platform might allow learners to
create a wiki or blog together.
● Problem-based learning environments: These environments present
learners with real-world problems to solve. For example, a
problem-based learning environment for science students might
challenge them to design and build a bridge that can withstand a
certain amount of weight.
● Inquiry-based learning environments: These environments encourage
learners to investigate and explore topics on their own. For example,
an inquiry-based learning environment for social studies students
might allow them to research a historical event and create a
presentation about it.
Benefits of using constructivist instructional
technologies

● Constructivist instructional technologies can be effective for teaching

a variety of skills and knowledge, including higher-order thinking
skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.
● They can help learners to develop the ability to learn independently
and to solve problems effectively.
● They can create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
● They can promote collaboration and social learning.
Challenges of using constructivist instructional
technologies

● Constructivist instructional technologies can be difficult and

expensive to design and develop effectively.
● They can be time-consuming for learners to use.
● They can be less effective for teaching skills and knowledge that
require physical practice.
Examples of how to use constructivist instructional
technologies effectively in the classroom

● Use a collaborative learning platform to allow learners to work

together on projects.
● Use a problem-based learning environment to challenge learners to
solve real-world problems.
● Use an inquiry-based learning environment to encourage learners to
investigate and explore topics on their own.
● Use simulations and games to allow learners to practice skills and
knowledge in a safe and controlled setting.
Social Learning Theory

● A theory of learning that emphasizes the importance

of social interaction and observation in learning.
● Social learning theory is based on the idea that
people learn by watching and imitating others.
Social learning and instructional technologies

● Social media platforms

● Online discussion forums
● Collaborative learning platforms
● Peer review systems
Examples of social learning instructional
technologies
● Social media platforms: These platforms allow learners to connect
with each other, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. For
example, a social media platform might be used to create a group for
students who are taking the same class.
● Online discussion forums: These forums allow learners to discuss
topics and ask questions with their peers and instructors. For
example, an online discussion forum might be used for students to
discuss the readings for a class.
● Collaborative learning platforms: These platforms allow learners to
work together on projects and assignments. For example, a
collaborative learning platform might be used for students to work
together on a research paper.
● Peer review systems: These systems allow learners to review each
other's work and provide feedback. For example, a peer review
system might be used for students to review each other's essays.
Benefits of using social learning instructional
technologies

● Social learning instructional technologies can help learners to learn

from others, including their peers, instructors, and experts.
● They can help learners to develop their social and communication
skills.
● They can help learners to develop a sense of community and
belonging.
● They can motivate and engage learners.
Challenges of using social learning instructional
technologies

● Social learning instructional technologies can be difficult and

expensive to develop and implement effectively.
● They can be time-consuming for learners to use.
● They can be used for negative purposes, such as cyberbullying.
Experiential Learning

● A theory of learning that emphasizes the importance

of hands-on experience in learning.
● Experiential learning is based on the idea that people
learn best by doing.
Key principles of experiential learning

● Concrete experience: Learners must have concrete experiences in

order to learn from them.
● Reflective observation: Learners must reflect on their experiences in
order to learn from them.
● Abstract conceptualization: Learners must develop abstract concepts
from their experiences in order to learn from them.
● Active experimentation: Learners must apply their new concepts to
new experiences in order to learn from them.
Experiential learning and instructional
technologies

● Simulations and games

● Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR)
● Case studies and problem-based learning environments
● Field trips and internships
Benefits of using experiential learning
instructional technologies

● Experiential learning instructional technologies can help learners to

develop a deeper understanding of concepts and skills.
● They can help learners to develop their problem-solving skills and
critical thinking skills.
● They can help learners to develop their communication and teamwork
skills.
● They can motivate and engage learners.
Challenges of using experiential learning
instructional technologies

● Experiential learning instructional technologies can be difficult and

expensive to develop and implement effectively.
● They can be time-consuming for learners to use.
● They can be difficult to assess learners' learning using experiential
learning instructional technologies.
Examples of how to use experiential learning
instructional technologies effectively in the
classroom

● Use a medical simulation to train students about medical procedures.

● Use a VR simulation to train students about a historical event.
● Use an AR app to teach students about the human body.
● Have students work on a case study to solve a real-world business
problem.
● Send students on a virtual field trip to a museum to learn about
history.
● Have students complete an internship at a company to learn about
business.
Connectivism

● A learning theory that emphasizes the importance of

connections in the learning process.
● Connectivism is based on the idea that knowledge is
distributed across networks of people and resources,
and that learners must be able to identify and access
these networks in order to learn effectively.
Key principles of connectivism

● Learning is a process of connecting disparate pieces of knowledge

and experience.
● Knowledge is constantly evolving and changing.
● The ability to learn is more important than the knowledge itself.
● Technology plays a vital role in learning by facilitating connections
between learners and resources.
Connectivism and instructional technologies

● Social media platforms

● Online discussion forums
● Collaborative learning platforms
● Open educational resources (OERs)
● Adaptive learning technologies
Quiz #1
Discussion
Share your experience with distance learning and the digital tools you've used.
What challenges have you encountered, and how did digital literacy skills play a
role in overcoming them?

In your opinion, what does it mean to be digitally literate in the context of learning?
How do you think digital literacy skills contribute to academic success in online
environments?
Digital Literacy

Digital literacy refers to the ability to use, understand, and evaluate digital
technologies and content.

It involves skills such as navigating online platforms, critically evaluating

information, and practicing responsible online behavior.

Digital literacy is crucial in distance learning as it empowers students to effectively

engage with online courses and resources.
Importance of Digital Literacy in Distance
Learning

● Digital literacy enhances students' learning experiences by enabling them to

access a wealth of online resources and participate in virtual collaborations.
● It equips students with essential skills for the digital age, which are valuable
beyond the realm of education.
● Digital literacy promotes self-directed learning, critical thinking, and
problem-solving, essential for success in distance learning environments.
Essential Skills for Digital Age (I)
● Information Literacy: The ability to locate, evaluate, and effectively use digital
information from various sources.
● Critical Thinking: The capacity to analyze and assess digital content critically,
considering its validity, bias, and reliability.
● Digital Communication: Proficiency in using digital tools for effective
communication, including email, messaging apps, and video conferencing
platforms.
● Online Etiquette: Understanding and practicing appropriate behavior, tone,
and respect in online communication.
Essential Skills for Digital Age (II)
● Cybersecurity Awareness: Knowledge of online risks, including identity theft, scams, and
phishing attempts, and adopting measures to protect personal information and devices.

● Privacy Management: Understanding privacy settings, data protection, and managing digital
footprints.

● Technological Competence: Proficiency in using digital devices, software applications, and

online platforms, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation tools.

● Digital Troubleshooting: Ability to diagnose and solve basic technical issues that may arise
while using digital tools and devices.

● Media Literacy: The ability to critically evaluate and analyze media content, including
images, videos, and social media posts, for accuracy, bias, and authenticity.
Essential Skills for Digital Age (III)

● Copyright and Intellectual Property: Understanding and respecting copyright

laws, fair use, and properly attributing sources.
● Digital Collaboration: Skills in working effectively with others using digital
tools, including project management platforms, shared documents, and virtual
collaboration spaces.
● Online Research: Techniques for conducting effective online research,
evaluating sources, and avoiding plagiarism.
● Digital Citizenship: Understanding rights, responsibilities, and ethical behavior
in online environments, including respect for others, responsible online
discourse, and digital rights advocacy.