The cognitive learning theory is built upon the thought processes of the brain. These processes focus on everything from short term memory to long term memory, but more on the long term retention of knowledge. This long term retention is built around elaboration by making numerous connections to the student in order to store info.
“Elaboration” and “Episodic experiences” can be easily integrated with some cognitive tools. Orey (2008) states that “Elaboration” occurs when you try to make as many connections as you can to that specific piece of information you are trying to learn. Graphical tools such as “Concept Mapping” allow you to organize and link the ideas to each others. It can also visualize ideas and connections between ideas.
Virtual Field Trip (VFT) is a powerful tool to create an episode. It can be an opportunity to “go” where you physically cannot, to compare information with other primary sources, and to engage in critical thinking activities (Laureate Education, Inc., 2008). Other than VFT, there are currently many applications of Experimental Learning Theory within educational systems, such as study abroad and mentor-based internships. Learning will be augmented or enhanced if these kinds of experience are followed appropriately by discussion as well as individual reflection like journaling. This is because the learner then begins to formulate concepts and hypotheses concerning the experience, which will eventually be retained in the brain as “episodic memory”.
In fact, there is another effective tool that can cover both “Elaboration” and “Episodic experiences.” ― Weblog. Blogs provide a very effective way to implement the strategy of reciprocal teaching. This highly structured form of peer teaching has four components: (1) summarizing, (2) questioning, (3) clarifying, (4) and predicting (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007, p.137). These components can serve as prompts to further facilitate elaborating and episodic experiencing as the participants converse with one another on the blog. Blogs can be far more effective if they are aided with movie clips and picture images along with the texts, especially in terms of “Effective use of images.”
There are actually numerous ways to correlate cognitive learning theories with the instructional strategies utilizing cognitive learning tools.
References
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program five: Cognitive learning theories. [DVD]. In Walden University: Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program five: Spotlight on Technology: Virtual Field Trips. [DVD]. In Walden University: Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Orey, M. (Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology: “Experimental Learning”. Retrieved November 16, 2010 from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Main_Page.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Chapter 8, “Reinforcing Effort” Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Jessica,
ReplyDeleteHave you ever incorporated a virtual field trip into your curriculum? I have heard about them in the past, but have not used it. I am really excited to be learning more about them. I am more confident in using them now, especially since it will support getting content into the long term memory. This is a great example of elaboration. Virtual field trips will certainly connect with something the students already know or will create a new connection where they can build upon it.
On a different note, do you blog with your students? This is something I do incorporate into my curriculum; however, it is not very advanced. I write about a particular topic and then my students will be given the opportunity to respond. I liked how you said, “Blogs can be far more effective if they are aided with movie clips and picture images along with the texts, especially in terms of effective use of images” (Morgan, 2011). I would love to get to the point where I can incorporate these features into my existing blog. I am learning slowly and am definitely motivated knowing that this will benefit my students.
I am in agreement that there are many ways instructional strategies can correlate to the cognitive learning theory. It is important to understand this learning theory to increase student achievement.
Tiffini