Module 2

Learning Theory: Cognitivism

            Kerr (2007) portrays the realities of learning theories in the present educational system.  I agree that the educational system needs a change, and this change needs to be based I theories and research.  Behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism do not explain how learning takes place in all situations, so I believe that a pragmatic approach would be best to address the needs of the students as suggested by Kerr (2007) and Kapp (2007).

            As an educator, I need to know and understand my students and their needs.  With this information, I need to design meaningful activities and lessons to meet their needs.  I would also choose the best theory or approach to make my students successful.

References

Kapp, 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/

Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _ism as filler, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from   http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Critique Siemens’s “metaphors of educator.”  Which of these metaphors best describes the role you believe an instructor should take in a digital classroom or workplace?  Is there a better metaphor to reflect your view of the role of instructors?

            Siemens’ (2008) metaphors of educator portray the actual reality of today’s educators (pp. 15-17). “Educator as master artist” shows that the teacher need to create learning environments where students can interact, learn from each other, and work together during the learning process. “Educator as network administrator” suggests that teachers need to assign duties to the students, establish goals, and create networks for learning.  In this way, students are responsible for their learning, and the teacher is a supervisor.  “Educator as concierge” describes a teacher who guides students in different options, so students will be able to choose the best route for learning.  Teachers need to create learning environments where students are active participants in the learning process.  “Educator as curator” shows a teacher who has to establish rules and goals as a manger, so students can work in collaboration and be responsible of their own learning.  Teachers need to supervise students during the learning process and guide them in the right direction.

            All these metaphors seem to fall under the usual metaphor: educator as a facilitator.  Teachers need to create learning activities and stimulate students to take an active role in the learning process.  Teachers need to guide and supervise students during the whole learning process.

Reference:

Siemens, G. (2008, January 27). Learning and knowing in network: Changing roles for educators and designers. Paper presented to ITFORUM. Retrieved from http://it.coe.uga.edu/itforum/Paper105/Siemens.pdf