Learning Theories Reading List for Instructional Designers by TRISHA garland

Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age

trishag77 — 2024-10-13 04:36:52 UTC

Siemens introduces Connectivism as a learning theory for the digital era. This article explores how technology and network connections influence learning in the modern world.

Evaluating Constructivist Learning

trishag77 — 2024-10-13 04:43:16 UTC

Jonassen asks the question: How do we evaluate constructivist learning? As a teacher in a school with a constructivist approach, I felt affirmed by his notion that "Evaluation from a constructivistic perspective should be less of a reinforcement and/or behavior control tool and more of a self-analysis and meta-cognitive tool." My school does not use grades. Instead, we aim for authentic assessment through the use of end-of-trimester exhibitions of learning where students present their learning and reflections on their learning to a panel of their peers.

Cognitivist Learning

trishag77 — 2024-10-14 12:58:05 UTC

This appears to be one of the first papers describing cognitivism. I am fascinated that this was a new concept as late as 1986.

I would like to highlight one quote that, as a teacher, I found of particular importance. On page 430, Shuell states, "...the teacher's role is different from the one frequently envisioned in traditional conceptions of teaching. What have changed are the focus and the realization that good teachers are not merely people who can articulate a large number of relevant facts and ideas (although a sound understanding of the subject matter they are teaching is certainly essential); effective teachers must know how to get students actively engaged in learning activities that are appropriate for the desired outcome."

Learning with Instructional Design

trishag77 — 2024-10-14 13:23:53 UTC

I included this source because it is an overview of not just the three main learning theories but many of the other concepts of learning we have covered in our studies of instructional design. It is nice to see them all in one place!

Cognitive Load Theory

trishag77 — 2024-10-14 13:39:53 UTC

This is a great little video that summarizes the work of John Sweller on cognitive load theory. I like it because it's visually pleasing, well-paced, and gives practical information to educators.

Connectivism and adult learning

trishag77 — 2024-10-14 13:45:57 UTC

I selected this website because it provides a straightforward and simple description of practices that line up with the connectivist learning theory. I find the landmark paper by George Siemens to be a bit scary and unsettling with its descriptions of how technology is literally rewiring our brains - this one is a bit more palatable for me.

Constructivism in eLearning

trishag77 — 2024-10-14 13:53:26 UTC

I selected this website as it helps me to see the aspects of constructivism that exist in my own studies of instructional design. The INSDSG 601 course in particular is implementing a number of strategies mentioned this article. For example, "At key points in the learning journey, employees could also attend short workshops with the experts in person." We do that! Additionally, there's mention that "Whether in-person or online, we need to provide opportunities for learners to collaboratively solve problems and discover solutions." We have been doing this in our TTE groups.