The discussion regarding cognitivism versus behaviorism is interesting in light of the possibilities offered through technology. Kapp (2007) responds to Kerr (2007) with the suggestion that both theories may provide helpful concepts for providing experiences to students. The many theories available for use by educators are similar to the many different ways students learn. Students come from varied backgrounds, cultures, countries, and have different learning styles. Technology has arrived to give educators a tool to meet everyone’s need.
Imagine a classroom designed to deliver content specific to the student. A course may be designed with a variety of choices. It is possible to offer video for visual learners, group experiences, field work, and creative choices. By determining the learning style of a student, it is possible to customize delivery. Learning can be an enjoyable experience for all students, not just those who fit the common mold.
The varied opinions regarding theory are an indication of the variety of choices available. Delivery systems have a wealth of tools. It is time for educators to catch up with the technology and find new ways to use the theory to fit the student, not ways to make the student fit the theory.
Blogs Referenced:
Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.htmlKapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/
Tracy,
ReplyDeleteDo you think technology is limited only to a role as a delivery system? I am thinking of the development of various biotechnologies that will change us as beings. Machio Kaku writes of some of these upcoming changes in his book 'Physics of the Future: How Science Will Shape Human Destiny and Our Daily Lives by the Year 2100'
~CeCelia
Great post Tracy. I like the idea of a customized class delivery based on students' needs and learning styles. Differentiation can be a challenge in the physical classroom, but online technology can simply provide different clicks to different activity types based on the participants. I remember thinking a loooooooong time ago that this would be the future, but the future is here!
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