Comparing Learning Theories

Behaviorism

The learner is passive and learns via external resources and processes with positive reinforcement (i.e. praise, good grade, knowledge, ...), and negative reinforcement (i.e. verbal correction, poor grade, extended housework, ...).

Methods:

Lecture
Drill & practice
Rotate learning
Multiple choice tests
...

Constructivism

The learner is urged to be actively involved and builds on personal experience, active and social in their learning process. Teacher and learner think of knowledge as a dynamic and ever-changing process, which stretches and explores the view of the world.

Methods:

Discovery
Collaborative group work
Scaffolding
Self-guided learning based on personal experience
...

Cognitivism & Connectivism

Cognitivism

Cognitivism is "the psychology of learning, emphasizes human cognition and intelligence as a special ability to form hypotheses and develop intellectually. Learning goes beyond external resources and is an internal process of cooperation of short and long term memory.

Methods:

Lecture
Visual tools to facilitate memorization
Multiple choice and essay assessments
...

Connectivism

Connectivism presents a model of learning that acknowledges the tectonic shifts in society where learning is no longer an internal, individualistic activity….Learning (defined as actionable knowledge) can reside outside of ourselves (within an organization or a database) (Siemens 2004).

Methods:

Self-directed quest for content
Sharing of content, sources
Spontaneous learning groups
Created knowledge collaboratively
...

Andragogy

Andragogy is an attempt to develop a theory specifically for adult learning. Adults are self-directed and take responsibility for decisions. Adult learning programs must accommodate this fundamental aspect. Andragogy means also that instruction for adults focus more on the process than less on the content.

Methods:

Adults need to be involved in the planning and evaluation of their instruction.
Experience (including mistakes) provides the basis for learning activities.
Adults are most interested in learning subjects that have immediate relevance to their job or personal life.
Adult learning is problem-centered rather than content-oriented.
...

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