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What is a Learning Theory?

D. Waldman
D. Waldman

A learning theory is the process by which humans and animals obtain knowledge and skills. The three basic categories used to classify leaning theories include behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism. The wide range of different learning theories is a result of the common variables present when learning is taking place, such as age, emotional state, and learning environment. It is also relative to the exact methods being used to gain the knowledge.

A learning theory that falls into the behaviorism category is based on the observable results of learning. This type of learning theory can be observed when the subject is learning a new skill, as would be the case with a child learning to tie his shoes. This particular type of behavior-based learning is often a result of a perceived reward for successful completion of a task or punishment upon failure of a task. One of the most well-known examples of the behaviorism learning theory involves actions learned as a result of classical conditioning, perfectly demonstrated by the use of external stimuli to trigger a particular response, as with Pavlov's dogs.

Some learning theories propose that students can create their own learning experiences.
Some learning theories propose that students can create their own learning experiences.

A cognitivism-based learning theory focuses more on the attainment of new knowledge or skills being a direct result of existing knowledge and individual memory retention. It is also commonly referred to as brain-based learning. This learning theory implies that learning is more a result of individual brain function, as opposed to external stimuli and conditioning. An example of this class of theory would be an individual attempting to learn a new language. If the person already knows more than one language, any subsequent languages will theoretically be easier to master due to the fact that his memory already has the basic knowledge of how to successfully learn a new language.

A learning theory is the process by which human and animals obtain knowledge and skills.
A learning theory is the process by which human and animals obtain knowledge and skills.

One of the most complex groups of learning theories focuses on constructivism and relies on individuals being able to create new concepts and skills, rather than just retain knowledge that already exists. It also speaks to the theory that knowledge is relative and unique to each individual, based on personal experiences and interpretation. In essence, it is a learning theory with it's roots based in both behaviorism and cognitivism. Constructivism can be demonstrated by an individual taking a basic cooking class. While he may learn the individual cooking methods in the classroom environment, more advanced knowledge will come when he begins using the methods outside of class, combining a variety of techniques to create his own particular style.

Discussion Comments

ZipLine

@candyquilt-- Learning theories like behaviorism are different methods used to analyze learning and development. So it's not really about how people learn but rather how to track human learning.

An infant's development and learning can be explained using one or more learning theories. If behaviorism is used, then only the behavior of the child will be considered to analyze development.

Behaviorism and cognitivism are competitive in the sense that psychologists usually prefer to use one theory/method rather than the other.

candyquilt

Do infants only learn by behaviorism then? I know that infants and toddlers learn by watching and mimicking their parents.

burcinc

Cognitivism based learning is the main method I am using to learn as a college student. I'm using knowledge I already have to build on it and form ideas. I'm also learning a new language and my language classes from high school are definitely helping in this regard.

I was reading some articles for class last week and I learned that research is also a great cognitivism based learning technique. Apparently, doing research helps the brain form new pathways. This helps the brain retain knowledge better and improves cognitive function.

I do a lot of research for my classes so I guess that's good.

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    • Some learning theories propose that students can create their own learning experiences.
      By: altanaka
      Some learning theories propose that students can create their own learning experiences.
    • A learning theory is the process by which human and animals obtain knowledge and skills.
      By: micromonkey
      A learning theory is the process by which human and animals obtain knowledge and skills.
    • A person may learn cooking methods in a classroom environment, but will achieve more advanced knowledge when he or she uses the methods outside of class.
      By: bst2012
      A person may learn cooking methods in a classroom environment, but will achieve more advanced knowledge when he or she uses the methods outside of class.
    • Different learning theories are applied based on the age of the student.
      By: jolopes
      Different learning theories are applied based on the age of the student.
    • If a person knows a second language, in theory it'll be easier for that person to learn another new language.
      By: michaeljung
      If a person knows a second language, in theory it'll be easier for that person to learn another new language.