The cognitive theorists view learning as, "a mental operation that takes place when information enters through the senses, undergoes mental manipulation, is stored, and is finally used" (Duffy & McDonald, 2008 p.16). Enshined in this definition is the idea that learning is a thinking process, a mental activity of the brain. Dr. Wolfe (2008) emphasized that learning is making connections or strenghening connections in the brain. She also emphasized that in order to understand, the brain attaches new experiences to information that is already there. In addition, the brain creates new connections when new experiences are encountered.
The instructional strategies that were studied over the past week correlate well with the cognitive learning theories. Pitler et al (2008) suggested that cognitive instructional tools such as cues and questions help to trigger student's memories and help them to access prior knowledge. Thus helping to support the connections and prepare the brain to receive new information. According to Pitler et al. (2008) teachers can use the web to find new information which is then plug into advance organizer. The advance organizers are good instructional tools because they mimic the connective, networking of the brain. Technology offers teachers numerous ways of presenting instructional materials to students that can stimulate their thinking, reasoning and creativity, thus supporting the cognitive perspective on learning.
Reference:
Duffy, J. & McDonald J. (2008). Theoretical foundations. New York: Laureate Education Inc.
Laureate Educational, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Dr. Patricia Wolfe, Dr. Michael Orey.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroon instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
The instructional strategies that were studied over the past week correlate well with the cognitive learning theories. Pitler et al (2008) suggested that cognitive instructional tools such as cues and questions help to trigger student's memories and help them to access prior knowledge. Thus helping to support the connections and prepare the brain to receive new information. According to Pitler et al. (2008) teachers can use the web to find new information which is then plug into advance organizer. The advance organizers are good instructional tools because they mimic the connective, networking of the brain. Technology offers teachers numerous ways of presenting instructional materials to students that can stimulate their thinking, reasoning and creativity, thus supporting the cognitive perspective on learning.
Reference:
Duffy, J. & McDonald J. (2008). Theoretical foundations. New York: Laureate Education Inc.
Laureate Educational, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Dr. Patricia Wolfe, Dr. Michael Orey.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroon instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
I like the idea of using concept mapping to give the students a visual representaion of the information being studied. They would enjoy learning how to make their own, too. In addition, concept mapping could be used for mapping out projects that need to be completed by the group. By adding the information to the map gives each student the specific information that they are needing to prepare or study. Each one can see what the other is doing and knows that all the ideas will tie in together once they are compiled.
ReplyDeleteConcept mapping is a great visual tool for thinking, reasoning and creativity that can be utilized across the school curriculum. When students utilize concept mapping they are also implementing strategies and problem solving skills. This cognitive tool incorporates many levels of learning!
ReplyDeleteMaking it real and purposeful assist the students in making a mental connection. Concept tools along with multimedia experiences bring any subject to life.
ReplyDeleteI like the point that you make that learning is a thinking process which makes the concepts maps so important for helping the students to organize their thoughts so they can learn the new information. Do you use any of the technology now in your classroom with your students?
ReplyDeleteLinking new material to what a student already knows is key to making the connections that will help him or her remember the material. Multimedia approaches a student on so many levels that it is easier for a student to become engaged in the material regardless of the learning preference.
ReplyDeleteThe more visuals we use the easier our students can make connections. They live in a world today where there are tons of media all around us and them. I mean did you ever think some one could send you a picture on your phone that could fit in your pocket?
ReplyDeleteI too thought of Dr. Wolfe and her explaination of how memories are made and later recalled. I think that the strategies Pitler, et al gave in their book correlate to this knowledge of how the brain works perfectly. By asking questions, probing the students for information they already know and then making them take notes you are activating connections for them to attach the new material to as well as strengthening those connections by providing multiple interactions with the new material.
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