Educational Learning Theories

In the fields of psychology and education, learning is known as the process that brings together cognitive, emotional, and environmental influences and experiences for acquiring, enhancing or changing one's knowledge, skills, values, and world views. Explanations of what happens when learning takes place constitute learning theories. Many research studies have been carried out regarding the nature of educational learning. What follows is a list indicating the features of some educational learning theories and their corresponding proponents.

Subsumption Thoery – This educational learning theory proposed by David Ausubel describes how mechanism by which new material presented in an academic setting, such as lectures, can be integrated into existing mental structures. The presentation of new knowledge should be preceded by 'advance organisers' in order for subsumption to occur.

Observational Learning Theory – This educational learning theory by Albert Bandura states that behaviour is learned through observation and imitation of others.

Constructivist Thoery - This educational learning theory by Jerome Bruner states that individuals actively construct knowledge by comparing new ideas or concepts with their current knowledge, also known as schema or mental models.

Pansophism – Jan Amos Comenious proposed this educational learning theory which espouses the idea that learning, emotional and spiritual growth are connected to one another. He proposed teaching not merely through memorisation, but also through stimulation of the senses.

Learning by Doing - This educational learning theory by John Dewey proposes that learning occurs through experience.

Socioemotional Development – Erik Erikson's 'Eight Stages of Man' describes a series of crises that individuals pass through at different stages.

Cognitive Dissonance – Leon Festinger's educational learning theory, which is one basis for constructivism, states that inconsistencies between behaviours and beliefs motivate people to change.

Educational Learnings