Fitting the Pieces Together!

Learning theories/Learning styles:

I now have a deeper more learned understanding of the difference between learning theories and learning styles and to what areas of learning each term refers. Learning theories are conceptual frameworks that describe how information is absorbed, processed, and retained during learning (Knud 2004), while Learning styles generally describe an individual's natural or habitual pattern of acquiring and processing information in learning situations (Gardner 1995). Learning brings together cognitive, emotional, and environmental influences and experiences for acquiring, enhancing, or making changes in one's knowledge, skills, values, and world views (Ormrod 2012). Understanding Learning theories more so than Learning styles should influence the work of instructional designers. “Learning theories provide instructional designers with verified instructional strategies and techniques for facilitating learning as well as a foundation for intelligent strategy selection” (Ertmer and Newby). My views have not changed but my understanding has increased. I can now say with confidence that adult learners’ life experiences do affect what they learn but does not fundamentally affect how they learn.

Technology:

Technology totally encompasses my life. I cannot perform my job nor, communicate effectively without technology. I have come to understand why today’s teachers, especially the ones who have recently graduated for college seem totally lost if the Internet goes down or their computer crashes. Today’s teachers own a desktop computer, a laptop or tablet PC and an android phone. As I write this I realize that I do own all those as I am connected to my personal network at all times. Technology allows me to reside in The Bahamas, participate in the WaldenU degree program, maintain full time employment and keep my family life on an even keel.

Learning preferences:

I am more aware that the content I am required to learn determines the way I absorb, process, and retain information. In some cases I need to practice the repetition process of the Behaviourist, in another situation I may practice the Social Learning theorists’ modelling by observing others or glean information from networks like the Connectivists while also practising to be an independent learner, responsible for my own learning as suggested by the Adult learning theorists. Learning theory has given me a reasonable explanation for my personal learning practises.

References:

Illeris, Knud (2004). The three dimensions of learning. Malabar, Fla: Krieger Pub. Co.

Ormrod, Jeanne (2012). Human learning (6th ed.). Boston: Pearson

James, W.; Gardner, D. (1995). "Learning styles: Implications for distance learning". New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education.