A Deeper Understanding of Learning Theories and Learning Styles

After rereading my discussion forum post from Week 1 of our course, the opinions that I had then about learning styles, and about Behaviorism, Cognitivism, and Constructivism, are still the same. However, my views on learning have expanded greatly with the additional exposure to Social Learning Theory, Connectivism, and Adult Learning Theory. I still consider myself a life-long learner, with a preference for solitary learning through independent study. However, that understanding is now enriched with the knowledge of how social networks and the presence of technology impact my own learning.

From Social Learning Theory, I now know that while I think I have a preference for solitary learning, the truth is that I do rely on a network of others, peers and mentors, to help in my learning. Learning is not a solitary endeavor. Social Learning Theory says that learning occurs through social interactions throughout a learner’s life, first with parents, then later with peers (Laureate Education, 2009). So, I have been learning from others my entire life, maybe without always being cognizant of that fact. In Social Learning Theory, “people learn through observing others’ behavior, attitudes, and outcomes of those behaviors” (Social Learning Theory, n.d.). Learners model their behavior after what they see in others. By paying attention and retaining what they have seen, they are then eventually able to reproduce those skills on their own (Social Learning Theory, n.d.).

From Connectivism, I now know that I learn through a network of technology and people. I didn’t realize how heavily I relied on 21st century technology in the course of my own learning until I read the work of George Siemens. I have “learned how to learn” (Davis, Edmunds & Kelly-Bateman, 2008). Thanks to George Siemens, I know that learning occurs through the ever-changing process of gathering new information from a variety of sources in one’s networks. I have heard this same idea expressed in another way: as Progressive Learning (“Primary ICT – Natural Connections,” n.d.). In this video, “progressive learning” is defined as a learner, starting from one place, then making connections by interacting with peers in a social network, interacting with information available through a technology network, as well as a variety of traditional sources, such as books and journals. Once the learner makes initial connections and takes on information and knowledge, the learner can proceed to acquire additional knowledge, which is added to the knowledge already acquired. Learning, then, becomes a gradual process of building upon previous knowledge through interaction with social networks and technology. I think the idea of “progressive learning” best describes my personal style of learning, and I am very excited to have a name to put on it.

Finally, our study of Adult Learning Theory  added to my growing understanding of learning theories by helping me realize the range of characteristics that tend to be unique to adult learners. While there are many commonalities among learners of all ages, adult learners have some unique characteristics (Conlan, Grabowski,  & Smith, 2003). Adult learners tend to be self directed and have a vast deal of life experiences; adult learners also tend to have a lot of extra responsibilities, such as jobs, families, and households to maintain, while going to school simultaneously. Adult learners can learn in many environments, from formal classrooms to the workplace. Adult learners rely on their life experiences, previous learning experiences, work experiences, and more to draw from (Conlan, Grabowski,  & Smith, 2003). I, myself, fit this bill of “adult learner” quite well. At 48 years of age, I am pursuing a second master’s degree, I work full time, I am engaged in consulting on the side, and I’m a single parent of an 11-year-old daughter. I am a busy, highly-motivated, and very much a self-directed adult learner.

The Role of Technology in my Learning Process

I really didn’t pay attention before to the extent that technology plays a role in my own learning processes. I think I always took the technology for granted – it was simply there. Now I understand the role that technology plays in learning, and I have a much greater appreciation for its presence. I, myself, am highly reliant on technology in my own learning process. For me, technology primarily offers me a conduit through which I can obtain information. I am constantly searching the internet for credible sources of information related to the topics that I am studying.... whether I am looking for books, journal articles, or informal sources of information. I use technology to record information... both in blogs and using a word processing application. I also use technology to create my own content, whether it is a written document in a word processing application, a narrated presentation, or a dynamic and fluid presentation, such as Prezi. Technology in the learning sphere is an empowering force. It also levels playing fields for learners. Nearly everyone can have access to technology to aid them in their learning quests, regardless of their financial resources. Technology is indeed the great equalizer, and in the future, the presence of our vast and global network of information will empower learners throughout the world to take control of their own progress and success.

References

Conlan, J., Grabowski, S., & Smith, K. (2003). Adult learning. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Adult_Learning

Davis, C., Edmunds, E., & Kelly-Bateman, V. (2008). Connectivism. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Connectivism

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Theory of Social Cognitive Development [DVD]. Baltimore, MD: Dr. Jeanne Ormrod.

Primary ICT - Natural Connections | SchoolsWorld. (n.d.). SchoolsWorldTV. Retrieved April 15, 2012, from http://www.schoolsworld.tv/node/1183

Social Learning Theory (Bandura) | Learning Theories. (n.d.). Learning Theories. Retrieved April 15, 2012, from http://www.learning-theories.com/social-learning-theory-bandura.html