Assignment 2.1 Section 5

1. Name the four major theories of learning and address the following questions for each theory:  Behaviorist, Directed Instruction, Cognitive Learning and Constructivism

a. How does this theory describe learning?

 Behaviorist Learning: Knowledge that is transmitted from one person to the next

Directed Instruction: teachers present instruction, provide an opportunity for students to practice learning, and then give feedback

Cognitive Learning: learning by focusing on the mental processes, or cognitive skills, such as thinking, memory, knowing, and problem-solving

Constructivism:  learning is constructed in the student’s mind

b. How does the teacher shape learning?

In Behaviorist Learning the teacher discovers the best consequences, positive or negative, that will shape behavior. In Directed Instruction the teacher shapes learning through giving information and then an opportunity for students to practice and ask questions. In Cognitive Learning the teacher helps students learn by letting them focus and practice different skills. In Constructivism the teacher helps students learn through giving the student an opportunity to think and practice with his own knowledge.

c. What are two types of technology that support this view of learning?

Two types of technology that supports Behaviorist Learning are computer assisted instruction and PowerPoints. Two types of technology that support Directed Instruction are watching tutorials and drill and practice software. Two types of technology that are used for Cognitive Learning are simulations and concept maps. Two types of technology that are used for Constructivism is power points and a smart board.

2. Briefly describe at least nine major categories that you should consider when differentiating instruction for different types of learners. Explain how technology could be used to provide some form of differentiated instruction in each of these categories.

1. Learning style: is how the learner prefers to read, how they prefer to receive the information

2. Intelligence Preference: Students may have multiple intelligences that teachers should be aware of

3. Gender: Researchers have found that members of gender tend to use computers                              differently.

4. Culture: Teachers should consider the context of the material, the students level of preparation and the appropriate use of collaboration among students.

5. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: This disorder is commonly diagnosed with kids and some of the symptoms are lack of being able to pay attention, hyperactivity and impulse behavior. This makes it difficult for students to pay attention but there are strategies and medicine teachers can try for them to be successful in the classroom.

6. Index of Inclusiveness: Teachers should make the materials include representations of many group of students, including those in the classroom.

7. Universal Design for Learning: Meeting the Needs of All Learners: teachers should be able to customize and personalize learning activities to address student’s diverse learning styles, working strategies, and their abilities to use tools and resources

8. Grouping Students: Facilitating Meaningful Learning: Grouping is one way teachers can work with the multiple intelligences of students, this is one way to personalize learning for the student

9. Assistive Technologies: Students with Physical Challenges: is technology used by individuals with disabilities in order to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible.