20th and 21st Learning Theories

  • Behaviourism

    Popularized by figures including Ivan Pavlov (Classical conditioning - learning through association) and John B. Watson (learning through being rewarded/punished). In a classroom using behaviorism, a teacher might give students a sticker (positive reinforcement) every time they complete their homework on time, encouraging them to continue this behavior.
    https://youtu.be/V09FuazW8bc?si=L2f_CFKaubg89bZp
  • Cognitivism

    Popularized by Jean Paget, this theory focuses on the role of mental processes in how individuals learn. In a classroom using cognitivism, a teacher might ask students to create mind maps to help them organize and understand complex concepts, fostering deeper processing and retention of information.
    https://youtu.be/IhcgYgx7aAA?si=w2nbZOLLwnqv7-XQ
  • Humanism

    Popularized by Abraham Moslow and his Hierarchy of Needs, emphasizing the importance of self-growth and fulfilling your potential. In a classroom using humanism, a teacher might encourage students to set personal learning goals and reflect on their progress, fostering self-directed learning and emotional growth.
    https://youtu.be/O-4ithG_07Q?si=F1Hwg6emf4mfW_bm
  • Constructivism

    Popularized by figures including Lev Vygotsky, Jean Piaget and Jerome Burner. This theory focuses on the learning constructing their own knowledge based on their own experiences. In a classroom using constructivism, a teacher might have students work on a group project to solve a real-world problem, encouraging them to actively construct knowledge through collaboration and hands-on experience.
    https://youtu.be/i3lv-DBh4w8?si=WueU3N-IUNWduhQ8
  • Gamification

    Popularized by Karl Capp. The idea is to make tasks more enjoyable and encourage desired behaviors by using gaming aspects. In a classroom using gamification, a teacher might create a points system where students earn rewards for completing assignments, participating in discussions, and reaching learning milestones, motivating them to engage and improve their performance.
    https://youtu.be/W72DnmSZbr4?si=5mitc-M0DSUqnszE
  • Connectivism

    Popularized by figures including George Siemens, this theory emphasizes the role of networks and digital connections in the learning process. In a classroom using connectivism, a teacher might encourage students to collaborate online with peers from different schools or countries, sharing resources and insights to co-create knowledge and expand their learning network.
    https://youtu.be/SvhY70C6Drk?si=KkEIogXgHQeDlhm1
  • Flipped Classroom

    Popularized by figures such as Jonathan Bergmann and Aaron Sams who were chemistry teachers. This theory learns new material at home, often through videos or other resources, and use class time for engaging in hands-on activities, discussions, or problem-solving exercises.
    https://youtu.be/qdKzSq_t8k8?si=iFB5ntP4hbvLlWqq