Cognitivism

After diving into cognitivism, I have found it will be difficult to stay on topic with this assignment. I have found many ways to apply cognivitism into my lesson planning, and cannot wait to implement them.

In kindergarten I introduce a unit/lesson many times by using KWL charts. I like them because they activate prior knowledge and force the students to ask questions; therefore, forcing thinking skills and interest. Students/teachers can use inspiration to create templates for students to fill in. Using graphic organizers gives students a visual representation that allows them to organize and process information. The visual representation is a strategy relative to cognitivism because it involves the senses. Integrating the senses enhances long term memory and brought about a process called “dual coding”. Dual coding states that the brain recalls images, smells, etc. more than text because it stimulates prior knowledge and experiences (Orey, 2001).

Power points are a technology tool that connects cognitivism by also using visual cues. As Dr. Orey said in his video – make sure to make the connection between what is being taught and the images.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Orey.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

Behaviorism in Practice

It is my belief that classroom instruction must include aspects of behaviorism to be successful. On page 188 of the text "Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works", it talks about the importance of practice, exposure, and immediate feedback. All of these recommendations are consistent with behaviorism.

Incorporating technology enhances student learning through behaviorism. There are many computer software programs that allow drill and practice and offer immediate feedback. Some of them progress at the individual students' pace which is a great tool for drill and practice. As stated in the text, web resources allow students to practice at home. Some of my homework assignments are websites students can work on at home.

As a behaviorist I believe that drill and practice are important, – the more we perform a task, the better we get! Dr. Wolfe reiterates this idea in the video presentation when she states that the more our brains are activated, the more learning is increased (Laurete, Wolfe).

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Wolfe.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.