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What is Learning Theory?
📌 Learning theory is the study of how people acquire knowledge, develop skills, and form attitudes[1][2][3]. These theories map how the mind moves from not knowing to knowing. When a child finally grasps how multiplication works or an adult learns to speak a new language, learning theories explain what's happening.
🎯 PURPOSE: The theoretical frameworks developed because educators and researchers needed more than simple observation to improve teaching effectiveness[1][2][3]. Established formally in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, learning theories connect educational research and classroom practice, offering evidence-based principles rather than relying on intuition or tradition alone[4][5].
⚙️ HOW IT WORKS: Learning theories convert into concrete teaching strategies by providing specific guidelines for instruction and assessment[2][6][7]. For example, behaviorist principles result in reinforcement-based teaching methods, while constructivist theory promotes hands-on, collaborative learning experiences. These frameworks help educators choose suitable methods for different learners and contexts[8][9].
🌍 CONTEXT: Major theoretical schools include behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and social learning theory, each offering distinct perspectives on the learning process[1][2][3]. Rather than conflicting approaches, modern educators often blend these theories to create comprehensive instructional strategies that address diverse learning needs and educational goals[7][9].
Sources —
[1] https://octoproctor.com/resources/glossary/learning-theory
[2] https://www.nu.edu/blog/theories-of-learning/
[3] https://www.instructionaldesigncentral.com/learning-theory
[4] https://www.phoenix.edu/articles/education/educational-learning-theories.html
[5] https://mybrainisopen.net/learning-theories-and-learning-design
[6] https://griffl.org/comparing-learning-theories/
[7] https://insight7.io/instructional-design-learning-theories-key-concepts/
[8] https://www.wgu.edu/blog/five-educational-learning-theories2005.html
[9] https://gsi.berkeley.edu/gsi-guide-contents/learning-theory-research/learning-overview/
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