QUESTION

Did your peer clearly explain why it is important to understand the difference between how we learn and how we learn effectively?

Does your peer’s posting share similar or different past knowledge than you have?

How can what they discuss help you to better understand the content in this course?

Share resources that you may have personally discovered that could help your peer to understand the content at a more developed level.

The two theories that I was not aware of are Behaviorism and Humanism Theories. After reading the material, I now understand that there are different variables, reasons why people learn the way that they do. Behaviorism is the intention that learning can be taught and is synchronized with psychological needs (Rosser-Majors, 2017). Humanism suggests that individuals act and learn through intended behaviors, their behaviors are impacted by their values (Rosser- Majors 2017). According to assimilation vs accommodation of knowledge article “assimilation of knowledge occurs when a learner encounters a new idea and must ‘fit’ that idea into what they already know and accommodation of knowledge is more significant, requiring the learner to reshape those schemas”.

Why is it important to clearly understand the process for acquiring knowledge and then the variables that support effectively processing this knowledge? The reason is because of the laws of learning and different theories requires different knowledgably views to help people understand.

Why would it be more accurate to state that “we each have preferred methods of learning” rather than “we all learn differently”? The reason we have preferred methods of learning is because there’s a such thing as positive and negative instructed learned behaviors. Some people behaviorisms learn through constructed training and behaviorists is a learning that’s observant.

Why does a more critical understanding potentially support a learner? According to Rossler,Majors (2017), Behaviorism is a theory whereas learning can be developed through use of rewards and punishments and a behaviorist suggest individuals can be trained to learn a behavior.

How could this understanding affect our success in a career? I believe it will have an affect  on one’s career such as being aware of how one learns for example, I am an observer hands on learner. I feel like reading doesn’t help me learn but if a person teaches me, I utilize my stimuli I am able to apply from my stimulated memory bank.

How might culture (socio-economic, social circle, etc.) affect one’s ability to accommodate or assimilate an expanded knowledge about learning? Humanism can potentially affect one’s ability due to assimilate an expanded knowledge of learning because it holds value on a person’s motivation, self-awareness and goal setting.

ANSWER

Understanding Effective Learning: Exploring Behaviorism and Humanism Theories

Introduction

In this discussion, we will explore the importance of understanding how we learn and how we learn effectively. We will delve into the Behaviorism and Humanism Theories and how they contribute to our understanding of the learning process. Additionally, we will discuss the significance of having a critical understanding of these theories and how they can impact success in both academic and professional settings. Furthermore, we will examine how culture can influence one’s ability to assimilate or accommodate expanded knowledge about learning.

Understanding Behaviorism and Humanism Theories

Behaviorism and Humanism are two distinct theories that shed light on the complexities of the learning process. Behaviorism focuses on the notion that learning can be taught and is linked to psychological needs (Rosser-Majors, 2017). On the other hand, Humanism suggests that individuals learn through intended behaviors, influenced by their values (Rosser-Majors, 2017). Assimilation and accommodation are two processes discussed in the assimilation vs. accommodation of knowledge article, where learners fit new ideas into existing schemas or reshape their schemas, respectively.

Importance of Understanding Effective Learning

Having a clear understanding of the process for acquiring knowledge and the variables that support effective processing is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it allows learners to apply the appropriate learning theories and strategies tailored to their individual preferences. This recognition empowers individuals to capitalize on their preferred learning methods, promoting more efficient and effective learning outcomes. Secondly, understanding the laws of learning and different learning theories provides diverse perspectives, fostering a more comprehensive view of learning processes.

Preferred Methods of Learning vs. Learning Differences

Rather than stating that “we all learn differently,” it is more accurate to claim that “we each have preferred methods of learning.” This distinction emphasizes the uniqueness of individual learning preferences while acknowledging that individuals may have varied methods of processing information. Positive and negative instructed learned behaviors can impact these preferences, with behaviorists emphasizing learned behaviors through rewards and punishments.

Critical Understanding for Learners

A more critical understanding of learning theories can significantly benefit learners. Recognizing the tenets of Behaviorism can help individuals navigate the role of rewards and punishments in the learning process, while grasping the principles of Humanism can enable learners to appreciate the importance of motivation, self-awareness, and goal-setting in their learning journeys. This critical understanding enhances learners’ abilities to adapt their approaches to suit specific learning contexts and challenges.

Impact on Success in a Career

Understanding how one learns best can profoundly influence career success. For instance, if a learner identifies as an observer hands-on learner, they may excel in practical, hands-on professions that align with their preferred learning style. By recognizing their learning strengths, individuals can pursue careers that align with their natural inclinations, contributing to higher job satisfaction and performance.

Culture’s Influence on Knowledge Accommodation and Assimilation

Culture plays a vital role in shaping individuals’ ability to accommodate or assimilate knowledge about learning. Humanism, with its focus on values and motivation, may be particularly impacted by cultural factors. Socio-economic background, social circles, and cultural norms can influence learners’ receptivity to new knowledge and their willingness to adapt their existing schemas.

Conclusion

Understanding the theories of Behaviorism and Humanism provides valuable insights into the learning process and empowers learners to tailor their approaches to maximize learning outcomes. Recognizing one’s preferred learning methods and gaining a critical understanding of learning theories can lead to enhanced success in both academic and professional settings. Moreover, acknowledging the influence of culture on knowledge accommodation and assimilation enables learners to embrace diversity and promote inclusive learning environments. By leveraging this knowledge, individuals can embark on fulfilling educational and career journeys while continuously evolving and adapting their learning approaches to achieve their full potential.