Learning Theories Week 3 - P/V/S Remix

Q1  What 2 Key Terms does Construction Learning Theory emphasize in relating the ides that learners already have with those newly forming?  Please define the terms

Bloom 2, list and describe

Assimilation:  The concept of processing information within the context of the existing mental framework
Accommodation:  The concept of processing information by adding to or modifying the existing mental framework

Q5  Do Vygotsky's theories apply to you?  Explain.

Bloom 2, explain and investigate

I generally agree with Vygotsky's learning theories, so yes, they do apply to my learning.  I learn in society, from many individuals, if not all on some level.  Whether I am at home, a party, on a walk with my BFF, or at church I am learning from those who are more knowledgeable than me in some area, and I am contributing to their knowledge and understanding as well.

For instance, I am a new MAC learner.  I am learning from Vanessa in class, from by classmates on break, and from my daughter at home.  While learning about the MAC, I brought up a concept that I had learned in this class, thereby enlightening my daughter.

I find the language component to be quite compelling.  I am not technologically inclined, so I find following along in my tech class to be quite challenging.  Conversely I have a fairly broad vocabulary and capacity for understanding, so find that I can learn and understand at a much better rate in my other classes.

Q6  Determine where in society we find examples of positive or negative reinforcement.  Give 3 examples with explanations as to why the examples is positive or negative.

Bloom 4, see pattens, explain, investigate

Through out society we constantly see examples of positive and negative reinforcement.  These experiences begin at birth and continue until death.  When a child is brought home from the hospital the parents begin with simply a smile or touch.  This is positive reinforcement of the child's existence, as the smile is naturally recognized and enjoyed.  On the playground inappropriate behavior may result in  punishment from the parent, or a slap or push by a playmate.  Thus the child begins to recognize that a certain type of behavior results in an unpleasant response.  In school good academic progress will be rewarded by good grades, positive recognition and possibly a treat.  Poor behavior in school would result in unpleasant disciplinary action such as a trip to the principal's office or detention.  Particularly with young children, reward and punishment is an oft use form of behavioral training.  As people mature however, they may question both the behavior and response, and a more intrinsically based teaching mode may be required.