Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Cognitivism in Practice

The cognitive learning theory is one that focuses on “external, measurable behaviors” . Lever-Duffy & McDonald, 2008, p.16). The components of this theory include limited short-term/working memory, elaboration, dual coding, and a network model of memory. The first phase is sensory which include audio and visuals; the second phase is how information is processed in our short-term memory but way of chunking; and the third phase involves how our type of long-term memory whether it be declarative, procedural, or episodic, stores information.(Laureate Education, Inc., 2009). The application assignment for this week provided me with an opportunity to explore cognitive tools to enhance student learning. Virtual field trips add a visual component to note taking by activating students with videos, games, and activities that can give them a clear understanding of their research topic.

Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works discusses two instructional strategies associated with the cognitive learning theory. A teacher might provide cues and questions “to aid the learning process, look for opportunities to activate students’ background knowledge, thereby providing a direction for exploration” (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007, p.79). Using advanced organizers help students make connections to stored information so it is more easily retrieved. Advanced organizers and concept mapping replicate the network model of memory, students are able to make connections in an organized manner (Laureate Education Inc, 2009).

Summarizing and note taking strategies enhance student learning by helping students filter nonessential information from the key points. Along with using concept maps students may also utilize blogs, wikis, web resources, word processing software, and multimedia are some ways that technology can be useful to summarize information.

Resources:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program five. Cognitive Learning Theory [Motion picture]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore: Author.

Lever-Duffy, J. & McDonald, J. (2008). Theoretical Foundations (Laureate Education, Inc., custom ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

1 comment:

  1. Charlene - I find your post this week very informative and interesting. I like your statement that emphasises how summarizing and note taking will enhance student learning by helping students "filter nonessential information" from key points. This is a great way to state a very important concept. I feel it is something most teachers do unknowingly but it is now vital to me to use the strategies we are learning to ensure a valuable cognitive learning environment. Thank you for the informative blog statement.

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