For over a century, researchers have been exploring the various aspects of human learning and have developed a range of principles and theories. Four major trends can be identified in the field of learning theory: behaviorism, cognitivism, social cognitivism, and neurocognitivism.
Behaviorism is a perspective based on the premise that learning is observable and measurable behavior. Behaviorists believe that learning occurs by means of reinforcing certain behaviors, either positive reinforcement (such as rewards) or negative reinforcement (such as punishments).
Cognitivists, on the other hand, views learning as an internal mental process. They emphasize the central role of mental processes, such as perception, memory, and problem-solving.
Social cognitivism combines elements of behaviorism and cognitivism in that it asserts learning occurs through external reinforcement and internal mental processes while emphasizing the impact of social interactions and the cultural context in which learning occurs.
Neurocognitivism using methods from neuroscience focuses on how the brain impacts human learning and behavior.
Though cognitive neuroscience has received significant validity in recent years, it is important to recognize that all learning theories have value. They each bring unique insights and raise new questions, help interpret data, and inform instructional strategies. Therefore, authentic teachers should take an eclectic approach to learning theories, incorporating elements from various perspectives to create a balanced and effective approach to teaching. Authentic teachers are naturally influenced by constructivism (both individual and social), self-efficacy, instructional scaffolding, transfer, and motivation.
References
Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. New York, NY: Ballantine Books.
Kozulin, A. (2003). Vygotsky’s psychology: A biography of ideas. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
Pérez-González, J. D. (2014). Constructivism and education. Routledge.
Ormrod, J. E. (2016). Human learning (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
Schunk, D. H. (2012). Learning theories: An educational perspective (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
Abderrazak Behhar 