The discussion concerning cognitivism as a learning
theory is an interesting one. Both
authors, Kerr (2007) and Kapp (2007), make the same point about learning. Learning is a multi layered event; people don’t
just learn one thins in isolation, which is used to connect to another
event. Learning theories have a lot of
_isms attached to them, but it isn’t a question of one size fits all. It boils down to we all have our own way of
learning. As a result, how a person
learns is key in bringing up test scores, utilizing the proper curriculum for
our students and instructional design.
Kerr (2007) wrote that “The learning theory is indispensible to the
curriculum reform effort and it is important.
We have to know our students are learning in order to determine the best
instructional approach.
References
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
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/
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteYou make very valid points in your blog post. I think the most critical responsibility we have as teachers is to know our students. Teachers must strive to identify each student's needs in order to make our instruction meaningful to everyone. Choosing one learning theory to follow in planning instruction is impossible. Each learning theory we've reviewed has important characteristics; however, it remains impossible to only follow one theory and be successful across the board. Differentiation is a crucial component of effective teaching. Carol Tomlinson offers some great ideas for differentation on the following blog: http://blogs.edweek.org/teachers/classroom_qa_with_larry_ferlazzo/2012/01/response_ways_to_differentiate_instruction.html
~Laura
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteI agree, both authors were right in stating that not one -ism is one size fits all. I also agree with Laura that it is very important for teachers to get to know our students. I give an inventory survey of my students at the beginning of the year to see what their nees and interests are. You're right we all have are own way of learning. I believe students learn in a hands on, engaging environment. I find it hard planning instruction along the curriculum with the timing alotted. It takes some students longer to learn than others, even with differentiation.
Tracy
Hi Ladies,
ReplyDeletethank you for your posts. I have read and own three books that were written or co written by Carol. A few years ago we did a book study on her book in diverse instruction.
It is very important to learn about our students, in order to learn how to teach our students.
Michelle