What are learning theories?
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It is very wide topic to discuss. I have explained only the essence of , what the learning theories are.
Learning theories basically try to explain, how an adult or a child learn and factors that may promote or hinder the learning process.
Knowles, who is well known to the theory of adult learning and he uses the term "andragogy" to describe how adults learn, and "pedagogy" to describe how children learn. As an adult learner,according to the adult learning theory, adults should have self-direction and readiness to learn new things. Any previous experience will augment the process of learning. Based on this theory, adults have got motivation that is largely internal.
I feel , there are three learning theories that, are more relevant to the clinical environment.
*Behavioural theory:
This theory gives more important to the "environment". If the environment is right, learning occurs as connections are made between a stimulus and response, and response and reinforcement. Skinner who is known to this theory who explains a theory of operant conditioning.(Hope, you know the dog and the sound of the bell...story)
*Cognitive theory:
Cognitive theories consider learning as an internal process that involves higher mental activities such as memory, perception, thinking, prblem-solving, reasoning and concept formation. Any previous experience and knowledge according to this theory, may augment the process of learning.
Cognitive theory were developed in response to behaviourist theories and include meaningful learning and discovery learning.
*Experiential learning:
Meaningful experiential learning involves thoughts, feelings and cognitive processes. Here, learners learn by selectively reflecting on their experience in a critical way. So, the experience is the must. Kolb, who is well known to this theory who, explains the cycle that involves in the process of learning.
1. Having the experience
2. Reviewing the experience
3. concluding from the experience
4. Applying theory to practice.
*Humanistic psychology and learning:
It is a general term for a group of theories that emerged in response to scientific explanations of the person. It emphasis on the personal freedom and choice, and places value on subjective experience. Rogers and Maslow are well known theorists.
Hope, this helps,
Regards,
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