Behaviorist Learning Theory and Constructivist Learning Theory Comparing

Behaviorist Learning Theory and Constructivist Learning Theory Comparing and Contrasting the Theories and Their Connection to Technology Use in the Classroom J. Michael Dillon Walden University Evolution of Educational Technology EDUC-8840 -2 Dr. Keith Pratt, Professor July 19, 2009

This presentation will address the following topics… • Fundamental Beliefs Underlying Each Theory • Basic Assumptions • Strengths of Each Theory with Respect to Technology • Weaknesses of Each Theory with Respect to Technology • Usefulness of the Theories Regarding Technology Goals

Fundamental Beliefs Behaviorist Theory 1) Learning is based on (operant) conditioning: the process of modifying behavior through positive/negative reinforcement. 2) Conditioned behavior can be developed through repetition. 3) Varying reinforcement schedules can modify behavior. 4) Behavioral objectives can be designed to guide learners to desired outcomes. 5) Human beings can evolve in infinitely many ways depending on the perceived stimuli in the environment (i. e. “blank slate”). Constructivist Theory 1) Individuals use existing cognitive structures to construct meaning associated with new information. 2) The analysis of mental processes cannot be solely based on biological or neurological perspectives. 3) Interdisciplinary approaches to learning are necessary to develop comprehensive schemas. 4) Accommodation and assimilation are basic tenets of the learning process. 5) Individuals learn and process information in different ways.

Basic Assumptions Behaviorist Theory Constructivist Theory 1) All human behavior can be reduced to a stimulusresponse model. 1) Learning is based on the mental schemas developed by the learner. 2) Behavior that cannot be observed is considered unscientific. 2) Students are active participants in the learning process. 3) Learning occurs through interaction with external factors in the environment. 3) Individuals perceive stimuli and/or acquire information through a variety of different channels. Cognitive processes are then used to manage that information.

Strengths of Each Theory Behaviorist Theory Constructivist Theory 1) Led to the behavioral objectives movement where instruction could be developed by stating (in behavioral/observable terms) the desired outcomes for students. Also gave rise to educational objectives based on taxonomies of learning. 1) Is a learner-centered perspective that focuses on the mental processes of each learner. 2) Recognizes that there are many channels through which individuals acquire, access, and conceptualize information. 2) Provided a foundation for computer-assisted instruction. 3) Emphasizes that students construct understanding based on previous experiences, connections with other ideas, interactions with surroundings, and so on. 3) Emphasized the individual nature of learning and provided a basis for individualized instruction.

Weaknesses of Each Theory Behaviorist Theory Constructivist Theory 1) Programmed instruction that led to drill-and-kill practice did not necessarily enhance learning. 1) High-quality instructional design of learning activities is essential in order to produce effective learning results. 2) The theory neglected cognitive processes that occurred but were not observable. 2) Assessing the cognitive processes of each learner can be a challenging process since these processes are not readily observable. 3) Behaviorism focused on instructional methods rather than on the characteristic learning needs of students. 3) Converting theoretical concepts into practical applications can be difficult.

Theories and Educational Goals How can each theory prove useful in meeting the educational goals of the 21 st century? Although the popularity of Behaviorism has waned, there are several applications that are still useful in meeting educational goals, particularly in the mathematics classroom. • Educational objectives are useful for clearly defining what expectations are in place for each learning activity. • Statements of objectives are also essential for transforming conceptualizations of classroom practice into tangible activities, behaviors, and/or pedagogy.

Theories and Educational Goals How can each theory prove useful in meeting the educational goals of the 21 st century? Although the popularity of Behaviorism has waned, there are several applications that are still useful in meeting educational goals, particularly in the mathematics classroom. • The ideas underlying programmed instruction (and computer-based instruction) provide additional tools for assisting students in particular aspects of the learning process. • At a foundational level, the importance of addressing learning decisions from a scientific, data-based perspective is highlighted.

Theories and Educational Goals How can each theory prove useful in meeting the educational goals of the 21 st century? Constructivist philosophies provide a basis for many important educational applications that can be readily married to the current availability of various technologies, learning strategies, and so forth. • Constructivism advocates for student-centered approaches that build upon the mental processes of the learner. • The unique characteristics of students with regard to learning style, intelligences, skills and talents, and so on are embraced and add value to the learning process.

Theories and Educational Goals How can each theory prove useful in meeting the educational goals of the 21 st century? Constructivist philosophies provide a basis for many important educational applications that can be readily married to the current availability of various technologies, learning strategies, and so forth. • Constructivist notions that individuals acquire information through various channels can be easily aligned with the various media-based technologies that are currently available. • Technology provides additional mechanisms for tapping into the learning processes of students.

Theories and Educational Goals How can each theory prove useful in meeting the educational goals of the 21 st century? Constructivist philosophies provide a basis for many important educational applications that can be readily married to the current availability of various technologies, learning strategies, and so forth. • Constructivism also allows for the social characteristics associated with learning. Educators play a huge role in helping students effectively learn, conceptualize, and apply various forms of knowledge, skills, etc.

Theories and Educational Goals How can each theory prove useful in meeting the educational goals of the 21 st century? Constructivist philosophies provide a basis for many important educational applications that can be readily married to the current availability of various technologies, learning strategies, and so forth. • Various technologies, communication tools, software, and so on add to the list of available tools that make it possible to better understand how students learn and think about the world and how students handle the ideas and information they encounter.

Theories and Educational Goals How can each theory prove useful in meeting the educational goals of the 21 st century? Constructivist philosophies provide a basis for many important educational applications that can be readily married to the current availability of various technologies, learning strategies, and so forth. • The use of technology can also assist in helping students to develop better, more accurate, and more complex mental constructions of the world around them. Access to information, applications that are tailored to individual needs, and tools for relating information are important things that are enhanced by the availability of technology.

Theories and Educational Goals Which theory will be the most useful in meeting educational goals? Although behaviorism has applications that are still useful in the mathematics classroom, constructivism appears to be the most useful theory for meeting educational goals associated with technology implementation and the teaching of mathematics. Constructivism provides a view of learning that makes it possible to explore the unique learning needs of each student. In addition, this exploration of student thinking can be enhanced through the use of various technologies that are currently available and/or will most likely be developed in the not-too-distant future.

Theories and Educational Goals How can technology facilitate the process of reaching educational goals? • Technology makes it possible to quickly access, organize, and interpret vast amounts of information. • Technology provides tools for developing multimedia based instruction that taps into the unique learning needs of individual students. • Technology provides outlets for applying knowledge in real-world situations. This leads to developing relevant connections between different ideas. • Technology can enhance communication and the sharing of ideas in a collaborative manner.

References Saettler, P. (2004). The evolution of American educational technology. Greenwich, CT: Information Age Publishing.