0 Fitting the Pieces Together

In the past several weeks, it has been very useful learning about the different learning theories and styles. However, I still agree with Bill Kerr (2007), that we need to take fragments from each philosophy and apply it successfully.  I was very impressed by Connectivism because it incorporates information, technology and social networks. It seems more relevant for the leaner of today.

As I viewed each of the learning theories, I realize each learning theory and style plays a significant role in my personal learning. I believe the behaviorist theory will always have an acceptable place in instruction because it provides the learner with the ability to have a stimulus-response, which may explain many human behaviors.  In addition, studying the Cognitive theory has allowed me understand how to sort out, choose, arrange, and incorporate newly learned information. The Constructivist Theory had given me the understanding why instructor’s roles can change from instructors to facilitators. It also emphasized communication between the instructor and the students and but also student-to-student communication.  The Social Learning Theory and the contribution of Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development) allowed me to realize there is a difference between what a learner can do without assistance and what he or she can do with assistance(Timeline of the History of Learning). Furthermore, Connectivism allowed me to understand how instructors put together content yet give the learner the ability to put all it all to collaborate with their cohorts. Additionally, the Adult learning theory emphasized a term called Andragogy from  Malcolm Knowles. I agree with Knowles that adult learners want to be responsible for their own learning.

         Technology plays a major role in my learning because not only I am taking an online course but also I am a web designer.  I have to keep abreast of the latest technologies because they change all the time. In addition, technology is such an important part in our lives we cannot ignore the importance of learning it.  

Kerr, B. (2007). _isms as filter, not blinker [blog]. Retrieved December18, 2010 from: http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html.

Timeline of the History of Learning. (n.d.). Retrieved December 18, 2010, from http://mym.cdn.laureate-media.com/Walden/EDUC/6115/01/mm/tec_timeline.html