Bill Kerr makes the statement that learning theories are comprised on many "-ism". Constructivism, Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Connectivism, etc. are all examples of learning theories. Kerr brings up the question that, "Should we continue to embrace these "-ism as a whole?" or should we "cherry pick" various different useful ideas from each of individual theories. I tend to feel that taking the best from each theory is more of the correct move. However, if the selected "-isms" can evolve and adapt to the changing world of education and learning then it may be possible to use entire learning theory as rule.
I do feel that it would be difficult to accept one theory as the correct one. For example, it would be hard to merely accept either behaviorism or cognitivism as rule. I think it would be difficult to make a blanket statement that all behavior is learned (cognitivism) or all behavior is already ingrained in us (behaviorism). I feel that it is combination of both as well as being impacted by many of the additional "-isms". The learning process it too complex to try to "shoe horn" it into one line of thinking. I think it would be difficult to define learning with any one theory or rule of thinking.
Karl Kapp's blog seems to support this school of thought when he states this in his blog:
"I couldn’t agree more. We need to take pieces from each school of thought and apply it effectively because…Cognitivism doesn’t explain 100% how humans process information and neither does Constructivism or Behaviorism."
The human learning process is a very complex process which we my never entirely understand and be able to explain. There are valid arguments for each one of the "-isms". However, no one school of thought can entirely and comprehensively explain the way humans process information. As hard some theorist may try, there will never be a "one size fits all" in regards to the learning process. I feel the greatest upside to this debate and discussion that is that it continues to prompt deeper discussion and research as to how the human brain functions and how we learn and process information.
I had some simmilar thoughts. A "one size fits all" approach is definetly not the way to go in education. We have got to look at all the theories and apply them to the student or students as needed.
ReplyDeleteDavid,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your blog this week. I agree with your statement that all "ism" must be incorporated into the educational setting to ensure all students are successful. We must always remember to adapt our classroom lessons and activities to meet the needs of our students as well as use a variety of learning styles to accommodate all students within our classroom.