Learning Theories Week 3 Post 1

Q1: Define the key concepts associated with Jean Piaget's theory of learning.


A: I believe this is Level 1 because it is straight forward and there is no thinking that needs to go into it.  It is rote memorization.


B: The key concepts associated with Piaget's theory of learning include Process of Cognitive Development; Adaptation and Organization, and his 4 stages of development, which are Sensorimotor, Pre-Operational, Concrete Operational, and Formal Operational. 


Q2: List the cognitive stages of development in Jean Piaget's model.  Provide either examples or illustrations for each stage.


A: I believe this is Level 2 because the stages are pretty straight forward, but then you must interpret them and show that you understand what they mean by giving an example.  This is not applying the ideas to a greater concept, however.


B: Piaget's first stage of development is Sensorimotor. This is when children learn using their 5 senses. They will learn, for example, by touching objects and feeling their shapes and textures. His second stage is Pre-Operational. In this stage, children start to reason, so they tend to ask a lot of questions. They want to know how the world works, but do not quite have the ability to grasp the complex concepts. His next stage is Concrete Operational. During this stage, the learner can begin to use logic appropriately. They can sort objects based on specific characteristics, such as shape or size. The last stage is Formal Operational, in which learners can think more reasonably and work through their problems without so much help from others.


Q3: How would knowledge of Vygotsky's theories potentially change the way you teach in future classroom?


A: I believe this is Level 6 because you must evaluate his theories and judge what you think is useful in his theory.  It is putting it into practice, rather than simply showing you know what he said.


B: In my future classroom I will include many group activities because Vygotsky believed children learn best through social interaction.  I will be sure to have students of  mixed ability levels in each group, so that there is a More Knowledgeable Other (MKO).  I will also begin by teaching the students and giving them plenty of support and guidance.  As time goes on, I will be less of a presence and expect more of the students.  I will expect them to develop their own questions and hypothesis and work through these issues on their own.  Most teachers believe they have to be in control the entire time, but according to Vygotsky, that is not the best way to promote student learning.  They must take their education into their own hands.