Cognitive Learning Theory

by Alissa, Joni and Slavik

 history Cognitive Learning Theory

Cognitive theory is based on a number of theorists

contributions
Edward Chase Tolman (1886-1959) [theory of sign learning],
Jean Piaget (1896-1980) [theory of individual cognitive
development], Lev Vygotsky (1896-1934) [theory of social
cognitive growth], Jerome Bruner (1915- ) [cognitive
constructivist learning theory], David Ausubel (1918-2008)
[advance organizer theory], Gestalt psychologists out of
Germany (Wertheimer, Kohler, Koffka, Lewin) amongst other
psychologists were instrumental in contributing to the
development of the cognitive learning theories as we know
them today.
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 basics Cognitive Learning Theory

Please watch a short video from Jerome Bruner (1915- )

[cognitive constructivist learning theory] & David Ausubel (1918-
2008) [advance organizer theory].

if video does not play

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http://youtu.be/_Sy8n5DRa7A
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 basics Cognitive Learning Theory

Cognitive learning theories focus primarily on how knowledge is:

acquired, processed, stored, retrieved, and activated
by the learner during the different phases of the learning process.

- learning as an active process involving the acquisition or

reorganization of the cognitive structures through which humans
process and store information and
- the learner as an active participant in the process of knowledge
acquisition and integration.

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 basics Cognitive Learning Theory

Knowledge acquisition is a mental activity involving internal

coding and structuring by the learner where learning
happens best under conditions that are aligned with human
cognitive architecture.

Main focus of cognitive teaching/learning approach is on

making knowledge meaningful and helping learners organize
and relate new information to prior knowledge in
memory. Instruction should be based on a students existing
mental structures or schema for learning to be effective.

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 basics Cognitive Learning Theory

Please watch a short video on Lady Gagas contribution to

Cognitive Learning Theory

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basics Cognitive Learning Theory

Learning is not just a sit down and listen pathway. It is

a process of thinking that influenced by past and
present surroundings and experiences. As educators,
we must look at the learned behaviors of our
students, the learning environment we are providing,
the environment they are accustomed to outside of
our classroom, and their personal needs and ideals.

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 references Cognitive Learning Theory

Merriam, S. B., Caffarella, R. S., & Baumgartner, L. M. (2007).

Learning in adulthood: A comprehensive guide (3rd.). San
Francisco: Josey-Bass.
Yilmaz, K. (2011). The cognitive perspective on learning: Its
theoretical underpinnings and implications for classroom
practices. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies,
Issues and Ideas , 84(5), 204-212.
doi:10.1080/00098655.2011.568989

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