• Discuss two individual learning theories. Compare each theory to one another and summarize their similarities and differences.
• Give an example of a learning situation that is appropriate with one of the learning theories you chose.
• Then take your learning situation and apply it to one instructional design theory and explain why you chose that particular design theory.
• Go to the literature and find a scholarly article that supports your response.

This activity is tied to:

•          Select an instructional design model to guide the development of effective teaching.
•  Compare and contrast prescriptive and phenomenological instructional design models.
•  Use research informed processes when designing, delivering, and assessing instruction.

References

Bastable, B. S. (2023). Nurse as educator: Principles of teaching and learning for nursing practice (6th ed.). Jones and Bartlett.

Reiser, A. R., & Dempsey, V. J. (2007). Trends and issues in instructional design and technology (2 ed.). Pearson.

ANSWER

Two prominent learning theories that have been influential in the field of education and instructional design are behaviorism and constructivism. Let’s explore these theories, compare them, and then apply one to a learning situation followed by the selection of an instructional design theory.

Behaviorism

Behaviorism is a learning theory that focuses on observable and measurable behaviors. It posits that learning is a result of external stimuli and the learner’s response to those stimuli. Behaviorists believe that behaviors can be modified through reinforcement and punishment. The learner is considered a passive recipient of information, and the emphasis is on conditioning and repetition to achieve desired learning outcomes. Behaviorism has been influential in traditional classroom settings and is associated with teaching methods like rote memorization and drill-and-practice exercises.

Constructivism

Constructivism, on the other hand, is a learning theory that emphasizes the active role of the learner in constructing their understanding of the world. It suggests that learners build knowledge through experiences, reflection, and interaction with their environment. Unlike behaviorism, constructivism highlights the importance of internal cognitive processes and prior knowledge. Learners are seen as active participants who create their meaning, and learning is viewed as a dynamic and social process. Constructivist approaches often involve problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaborative learning.

Comparison

Nature of Learning: Behaviorism focuses on external behaviors, while constructivism emphasizes internal cognitive processes.
Role of Learner: Behaviorism sees the learner as passive, whereas constructivism considers the learner as an active participant.
Teaching Methods: Behaviorist methods include repetition and conditioning, while constructivist methods involve problem-solving and collaborative learning.
Assessment: Behaviorist assessment often involves objective tests, while constructivist assessment may include project-based assessments and portfolios.

Learning Situation Example

Consider a scenario where students are learning a new language, such as Spanish. Behaviorism might involve repetitive vocabulary drills and quizzes to reinforce language acquisition. Students are rewarded for correct responses and penalized for mistakes, encouraging them to remember and reproduce words and phrases.

Instructional Design Theory Selection

For this learning situation, the instructional design theory that aligns well with constructivism is the **Constructivist Design Theory**. This theory emphasizes active learning, problem-solving, and learner-centered approaches. In the context of language learning, a constructivist instructional design would involve interactive activities, group discussions, and real-world application of language skills. Learners would engage in meaningful conversations, cultural immersion, and collaborative projects to construct their understanding of the language.

Supporting Scholarly Article

One scholarly article that supports the application of constructivism in instructional design is “Constructivism and Problem-Based Learning” by Barrows (1996). This article discusses how problem-based learning, a constructivist approach, promotes active learning, critical thinking, and knowledge construction among students. It provides insights into the effectiveness of constructivist instructional design in various educational settings.

In conclusion, behaviorism and constructivism represent two distinct learning theories with differing views on the nature of learning and the role of the learner. While behaviorism focuses on external behaviors and conditioning, constructivism emphasizes active learning and the construction of knowledge. When selecting an instructional design theory, it is essential to align it with the chosen learning theory to create effective and meaningful learning experiences for students.