_isms
are important but use them as a filter, not as a blinker (Kerr, 2007). I agree with Bill Kerr's statement. I believe that learning theories serve as a
guide for thinking about how we learn.
As an educator, I shouldn't rely on one sole theory to guide my
instruction. "Under a close
analysis of the behaviorist, cognitivist, and constructivist schools of
thought, many overlaps in the ideas and principles become apparent" (Ally,
2008 ,p.20). Behaviorist strategies lends
itself to certain tasks, as does cognitivism, as does constructivism. Though dominate during different times in
educational history, they all serve a purpose and can be built one upon the
other to reach learners. "Behaviorists'
strategies can be used to teach the facts (what); cognitivist strategies, the
principles and processes (how); and constructivist strategies to teach the
real-life and personal applications and contextual learning" (Ally, 2008 ,
p. 39).
Karl
Kapp (2007) states that we need to "take the best from each philosophy and use it wisely to
create solid educational experiences for our learners." I couldn't have said it better. Behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism,
connectivism, and etc, can exist harmoniously within instruction and the use of
educational technology. The reality is
that one model cannot explain the multifaceted world of learning. Education, as has been proven over and over
again, is not one size fits all.
The reality is that one
model cannot explain the multifaceted world of learning. Education, as has been proven over and over
again, is not one size fits all.
Further
Reading:
References:
Ally, M. (2008). Foundations of educational theory
for online learning. In Anderson, T. (Ed.), The theory and practice of
online learning (2nd ed.) (p. 15-44). Edmonton, AB: Athabasca
University Press.
Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not
blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved fromhttp://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 fromhttp://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/
[Untitled image of people holding hands]. Retrieved
December 29, 2012 from http://www.learningsolutionsmag.com/images/articles/main/id_85_608.jpg
