Cognitivist learning theory focuses on how people actively construct knowledge through thinking rather than passively receiving it. It differs from behaviorism in that it emphasizes the role of cognitive processes like problem solving, memory, and language processing in learning. Key contributors to cognitivism include Paivio, who proposed dual coding theory about verbal and visual representations; Gagne, who described different types of learning building on each other; Gardner, who proposed multiple intelligences used in learning; and Bloom, who created Bloom's taxonomy of cognitive levels. Cognitivism supports using interactive tools to engage students in applying and analyzing concepts rather than just recalling facts.
2. What is Cognitivist Learning Theory? Active process of constructing knowledge rather than acquiring itBehavior analysis measures the effect of these activities on learningDifferent than Behaviorism because ¡°thinking¡± plays a major role
3. Theory ContributorsAllan Paivio (1925-)Verbal and Visual combinations help people recall informationDual Coding TheoryPeople process information in two ways:Images Language Three sub categories:Representational-Referential- nonverbal cues activate verbal processes (or vice versa)Associative- Both text and graphics are used for mental recognition
4. Theory ContributorsRobert Gagne (1916-2002)Concepts build on one anotherBuilding Block Principle:Verbal Information (base)Intellectual Skills (midsection)Cognitive Strategies (midsection)Motor Skills (midsection)Attitudes (apex)
5. Theory ContributorsHoward Gardner (1943-)Theory of Multiple Intelligences:People use 8 different intelligences to understand the world:Linguistic-verbalLogical-mathematicalSpatial-visualBody-kinestheticMusicalInterpersonalIntrapersonalNaturalist
6. Theory Contributors Benjamin Bloom (1913-1999)Most famous for creating Bloom¡¯s TaxonomySix levels ranging simple to complexUsed to acquire knowledge about a subject:KnowledgeComprehensionApplicationAnalysisSynthesisEvaluation
7. Classroom implicationsAs an educator: Without Technology:Visual aids like posters and physical objects can be used to reinforce conceptsWith Technology:Visual aids can be used againPowerpointsDocument CamerasInteractive tools that challenge students past the basicsSmart boardsCPS Clickers
8. Classroom Implications As a student:Without Technology:Students are supposed to push themselves to think criticallyBuild on the concepts they¡¯ve already learned via traditional avenuesWith Technology:Students are encouraged to test their theories and hypothesis Smart boardsVirtual programs
9. Personal critique of cognitivism Cognitivism would work well with my style of teachingI can use interactive tools to engage studentsIt requires students to build on previous knowledge Makes students rely on themselves for answersStudents have to think past the basics to answer questions
10. Works CitedTheories:Shelly, Gary, Glenda Gunter, and Randolph Gunter. Teachers Discovering Computers: Integrating Technology and Digital Media in the Classroom. 6th. Boston, Ma: Course Technology, Cengage Learning, 2010. 369-76. Print. http://www.learning-theories.com/cognitivism.htmlImages:http://www.frasermustardchair.ca/wp-content/uploads/Building-Blocks-Building-Brains.jpghttp://school.discoveryeducation.com/clipart/images/thinkingcapwhoa_color.gifhttp://isobe.typepad.com/sketchpad/images/Thinking-The-Boxs.jpg