Fundamental Theories of Learning

What Are Learning Theories and Why Do They Matter for Teachers?

Learning theories are research-based frameworks that explain how students acquire, process, and retain knowledge during learning. They matter for teachers because they provide evidence-based strategies for designing lessons, choosing teaching methods, and understanding why certain approaches work better for different students. The main theories include behaviourism, cognitivism, constructivism, and connectivism.

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The way in which human beings learn has been theorised for hundreds of years by influential learning theorists through various domains such as philosophy, and biology. Understanding the cognitive architecture behind the learning process is an important part of developing for teaching.

Historically, psychology has been where we have found some of the most profound answers about the process of learning. Recent theories, such as dual coding, cognitive load theory, and discovery learning provide educators with practical guidance on how to prepare lessons and facilitate effective educational activities.

Learning is not just about cognition; there is a complex interplay of different emotional, social and behavioural components, as highlighted by sociocultural theory. In this article, we will outline some of the major theories that you will encounter within your academic studies or journey of becoming a teacher.

Some of these theories of learning might now seem outdated, but their historical significance remains an integral part of any .

Every student is unique and will process new ideas in slightly different ways. While learning styles theory remains popular in some educational settings, rigorous research including Pashler et al. (2008) has found no evidence that matching teaching to supposed learning styles improves learning outcomes. Most cognitive scientists consider learning styles to be a neuromyth. Evidence-informed cognitive research provides more reliable frameworks for understanding how students learn.

Because the human brain is unique, and different experiences contribute differently to learning, we must refrain from narrowing our perspective of learning. Educational psychology experts have spent considerable time discovering how people learn, and this has been explained through different domains such as behavioural sciences and cognition research.

An effective educator will have a wide repertoire of different methods of teaching and learning. Teachers might need to adopt different learning theories when considering the broad range of circumstances we face daily.

The following are five of the most significant educational learning theories that teachers may use to create inclusive learning environments in the classroom and improve students' learning outcomes.

What are the most significant learning theories in education?

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How Does Cognitive Learning Theory Work in the Classroom?

Cognitive learning theories focus on the way individuals think. Mental processes play an important part in learning. According to cognitive theory, students can be impacted by external and internal factors.

Descartes and Plato were the first philosophers to focus on cognition. Researchers such as Jean Piaget made significant contributions to cognitive psychology. These contributions have shaped many aspects of modern society, including educational reform and the early years of education. His work had many overlapping domains but maintained a significant focus on how internal structures and environments impact the learning process.

According to cognitive theory, both external forces and inner thoughts are significant elements of cognition. As learners understand how their thought patterns, metacognitive processes and social cognition impact their behavior and learning process, they develop more control over it through self-regulation.

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The cognitive theory explains how learners build their understanding of their thinking process and how this enables them to understand new ideas. Cognitive psychology proposes that teachers must provide their students with opportunities for cognitive development through techniques such as thinking out loud and asking questions in the classroom.

These methods will allow learners to understand their thinking process, and use this knowledge to create better learning opportunities.

Metacognition refers to the ability to monitor one's own thoughts and actions. This includes self-awareness, insight, and reflection. These metacognitive processes allow us to understand our own thought patterns and behaviours.

For example, if someone asks me a question I don't know the answer to, I'll ask myself questions like 'what am I doing?', 'why am I asking this person?' and 'is my behaviour appropriate?' before answering the question.

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How Does Behaviourism Work in the Classroom?

Behaviourism works through systematic reinforcement of desired behaviors using rewards, praise, and consequences to shape student learning. Teachers apply behaviourism through techniques like positive reinforcement charts, token economies, and clear behavior expectations with consistent consequences. While effective for classroom management and skill drilling, behaviourism may limit intrinsic motivation if overused.

Behaviourism learning theory is based on the idea that a learner is like a blank slate and how they behave depends on their interaction with their environment. Behaviourism learning theory suggests that behaviors are learned and influenced by external forces.

Educational psychologists have been broadening the concept of behaviorism. Behaviorism is the foundation for psychology that can be quantified and observed. Positive reinforcement is a prominent component of behaviorism, as examined through classical conditioning in dog experiments by Pavlov. The theory of classical conditioning implies that behaviors are directly affected by the reward system that can be achieved.

Teachers may utilize positive reinforcement for assisting pupils to learn better. When learners receive positive reinforcement, they will more likely retain information and move forward, a direct outcome of the behavioral learning theory.

Understanding operant conditioning helps teachers recognize how consequences shape student behavior. This includes both positive and negative reinforcement strategies that can be used to encourage desirable behaviors in the classroom.

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What Is Constructivism and How Do Students Learn Through It?

Constructivism is a learning theory where students actively build their own understanding by connecting new information to their existing knowledge and experiences. Students learn through hands-on activities, problem-solving, discussions, and discovery learning rather than passive reception of information. Teachers act as facilitators who guide exploration and help students make meaningful connections.

This theory is based on the concept that students create their learning experiences based on their previous knowledge. When students receive new information, they build the new learning onto their past knowledge and experiences, making a reality which is unique to each student.

Constructivism learning theory considers learning as an active process, which is individual and personal for every single student.

Constructivism allows teachers to understand that each student brings prior knowledge to the classroom. Educators in constructivist conditions of learning perform the role of a guide to helping learners build their understanding and learning.

They allow students to establish their reality and process based on past experiences. This is important for enabling students to bring their knowledge and use it in their future learning practices. Inquiry-based learning approaches align well with constructivist principles, encouraging students to ask questions and construct their own understanding.

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How Does Humanistic Learning Theory Support Student Growth?

Humanistic learning theory supports student growth by focusing on the whole child, including their emotions, values, and personal goals for self-actualization. Teachers create supportive environments that encourage student choice, self-reflection, and personal meaning-making in their learning. This approach emphasizes building confidence, fostering creativity, and developing students' full potential beyond academic achievement.

Humanism learning theory is very similar to constructivism. Humanism directly concentrates on the concept of self-actualization. Everyone operates under a hierarchy of needs, and self-actualization is at its top.

These are the moments in which someone feels that all of their demands have been fulfilled and that they are the most favorable version of themselves. All are willing to accomplish this, and learning environments may either help meet needs or move away from fulfilling needs.

Teachers may establish classroom conditions of learning that allow students to get nearer to their self-actualization using creative, self-expressing learning activities. Understanding student motivation is key to applying humanistic principles effectively.

Educators may also help students meet their physical and emotional requirements, offering them a comfortable and safe place to learn, with enough food, and the desired support to succeed. This type of environment is the most facilitative to enabling students to learn. Creating a positive learning environment addresses the emotional and social needs that humanistic theory emphasizes.

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What Is Connectivism and How Does It Apply to Digital Learning?

Connectivism is a modern learning theory that explains how people learn through networks, technology, and connections in the digital age. Students develop knowledge by creating and navigating learning networks, evaluating online information, and collaborating through digital platforms. Teachers facilitate by helping students build digital literacy skills, connect to expert networks, and manage information overload.

Connectivism learning theory goes some way to help us understand the implications of digital educational technologies in the classroom. The idea helps us think about how information that exists outside of our immediate learning environment forms an integral part of the learning process.

George Siemens first wrote the article that led to this theory. The idea helps us think about knowledge as a connected network of ideas that lives beyond the immediate classroom.

As learning is a cognitive process that happens inside our heads, we also need a stimulus to think with, which increasingly resides in networks across digital platforms.

Teachers may use connectivism in a classroom to support students in creating connections with the objects that excite them, which will help them learn. Teachers may use digital technologies to create good, positive connections with learning.

Digital technologies may help build relationships and connections with the learners and with their peer groups to make learners feel enthusiastic about learning. Collaborative learning opportunities online exemplify connectivist principles in action.

Additional Learning Theories to Consider

The above five theories of learning consider the major ways we have historically explained the process of learning for educators who wish to support their students' learning. There are also some supplemental theories teachers may wish to use to support students in a classroom.

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How Does Transformative Learning Change Student Perspectives?

Transformative learning changes student perspectives by challenging their existing assumptions and beliefs through critical reflection and discourse. Students experience a shift in their worldview when they encounter ideas that don't fit their current understanding, leading to more inclusive and open perspectives. Teachers facilitate this through Socratic questioning, case studies that challenge assumptions, and reflective journaling activities.

Transformative learning theory was proposed by educational theorist Jack Mezirow, after researching adult female students who were returning to school. This theory of learning offers a unique approach to adults in education and learning. This learning theory is based on the concept that students may modify their thinking based on new knowledge.

Mezirow believed that learners have significant opportunities linked to their previous experiences and that critical review and reflection may lead to their knowledge transformation.

This strategy is more helpful for adult students, as young learners don't have the same type of transformation or learning experience. According to this theory, people's worldview is enhanced by their learning, which helps them to understand new ideas and concepts. Reflective practice is central to transformative learning experiences.

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How Do Students Learn Through Social Learning Theory?

Students learn through social learning theory by observing, imitating, and modeling the behaviors, attitudes, and reactions of others, particularly teachers and peers. The process involves attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation, with students more likely to copy behaviors that lead to positive outcomes. Teachers can leverage this by modeling desired behaviors, using peer demonstrations, and highlighting successful student examples.

Social learning theory can be used as useful equipment for managing learners who cause disruption in the classroom. This theory concentrates on the idea of children learning by observing others. For instance, a student may see a class fellow asking for something politely and receiving it, or maybe a student hears another class fellow talking about a new topic, which teaches them something new even if it's not something they have tried themselves.

In this instance, we are effectively treating students as educational resources.

Social learning theory was proposed by Albert Bandura. During the 1960s, he performed the Bobo doll experiment and observed children's behavior after watching an adult violently treating a doll-like toy. He documented the children's reaction when the aggressive adult was punished, rewarded, or faced no outcomes after attacking the doll.

Social learning theory has the following 4 elements:

1. Attention: The lessons must be unique or with unique activities to enable children to focus.
2. Retention: The students must internalize information to be able to recall it afterwards.
3. Reproduction: The student must apply previously learned behavior when it is applicable.
4. Motivation: The students are motivated by seeing other class fellows being punished or rewarded for different conducts.

Understanding Vygotsky's social development theory provides additional context for how social interaction shapes learning.

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What Is Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle and How Does It Work?

Note: Kolb's learning style typology is a contested construct with limited empirical validation. While the experiential learning cycle itself has value, the classification of learners into fixed "styles" (Diverging, Assimilating, Converging, Accommodating) lacks robust scientific support.

Kolb's experiential learning cycle is a four-stage process where students learn through concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. Students begin with hands-on experiences, reflect on what happened, form theories about why it happened, then test these theories in new situations. Teachers implement this through lab work, field trips, simulations, and structured reflection activities that complete the full cycle.

Experiential learning theory concentrates on learning by doing and motivates learning through experiences that will help students recall memories and retain details.

In 1984, David Kolb put forward the experiential learning theory. Though Kolb's influence came from other theorists such as Jean Piaget, Kurt Lewin, and John Dewey, he identified 4 stages of experiential learning theory.

1. Diverging. The diverging learning style involves learners seeing things from a different perspective. They mostly concentrate on reflective observation and concrete learning, wanting to see and observe the situation before getting involved.
2. Assimilating. This stage involves students receiving implicit information. These students prefer abstracts and concepts to people and analyze using analytic models. These students focus on reflective observation and abstract conceptualization in the experiential learning style.
3. Converging. Converging students are problem solvers. They prefer technical tasks and use their learning for practical issues. They like to try new ideas, and their learning concentrates on active experimentation and abstract conceptualization.
4. Accommodating: At this stage, students embrace practicality. They use intuition to solve problems and enjoy new challenges. These students use active experimentation and concrete learning while learning.

An example of experiential learning is to grow a garden to learn about plants instead of watching educational videos about it. Outdoor learning provides rich opportunities for experiential approaches.

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How Can Teachers Effectively Apply Multiple Learning Theories?

Teachers can effectively apply multiple learning theories by matching specific theories to learning objectives, student needs, and content types. For example, use behaviourism for classroom routines, constructivism for problem-solving activities, and social learning for collaborative projects. The key is being flexible and combining approaches based on what works best for your students and subject matter.

Without an underlying theory of the learning process, educators would find it problematic to design effective classroom instruction. These theoretical arguments also have implications for digital learning materials and the design of multimedia learning.

As well as affecting how we think about educational technology, these key figures in educational research can help us reframe how we think about pedagogy. Understanding differentiation strategies allows teachers to apply different theoretical approaches to meet diverse learning needs.

Educators might create particular methods to apply these theories of learning in the classroom. For example, they may use educational video games to teach a specific topic. It is important that teachers have a well-rounded knowledge of these learning theories so that we can create purposeful classroom experiences.

Understanding these theories can be developed through CPD, and it's always useful to revisit historical perspectives to help shape our own philosophies of education. Evidence-based teaching practices draw from multiple learning theories to create effective instruction.

Knowledge of different theories of learning allows teachers to connect with each student in their classroom. Teachers may use different educational approaches or technologies to teach, making education more inclusive and multisensory. (Note: While "learning styles" were once popular, research shows that matching instruction to supposed visual/auditory/kinesthetic preferences does not improve learning outcomes.)

What Research on Learning Theories Should Every Teacher Know?

Every teacher should know key research including Piaget's stages of cognitive development, Vygotsky's zone of proximal development, and recent findings on cognitive load theory and dual coding. Current neuroscience research shows how the brain forms memories and the importance of spaced practice and retrieval. Understanding this research helps teachers make evidence-based decisions about instruction and assessment methods.

The following studies collectively illustrate the ongoing dialogue and debate among educational theorists and practitioners regarding the most effective frameworks for understanding and facilitating learning. They highlight the complexities of learning processes and the importance of integrating insights from different theoretical perspectives to enhance educational practices:

1. Human-level control through deep reinforcement learning by Volodymyr Mnih et al. (2015): This paper bridges reinforcement learning with high-dimensional sensory inputs, showing how deep neural networks can learn successful policies directly from inputs, akin to human and animal problem-solving strategies. It demonstrates an agent capable of learning a diverse array of tasks, highlighting the blend of cognitive and behavioral theories in understanding complex learning processes.

2. The Cognitive Perspective on Learning: Its Theoretical Underpinnings and Implications for Classroom Practices by Kaya Yilmaz (2011): Yilmaz provides an overview of cognitivism and its contrast with behaviorism and constructivism. The paper discusses cognitive apprenticeship, reciprocal teaching, and other methods as illustrations of cognitive learning theories, emphasizing the active role of learners' mental processes in constructing knowledge.

3. Cognitive Conceptions of Learning by T. Shuell (1986): Shuell explores cognitive psychology's influence on learning theories, contrasting it with behavioral perspectives. The paper discusses cognitive theories' emphasis on the active nature of learning, understanding, prior knowledge, and the role of cognitive analyses in performance, showcasing the shift from behaviorism to a focus on internal mental processes.

4. Influence of Learning Theories on Science Education by S. Agarkar (2019): Agarkar discusses how behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism have shaped science education. The paper highlights the transition from behaviorist methods to constructivist approaches, emphasizing the role of learners in constructing knowledge and the implications for teaching science.

5. Learning: from association to cognition by D. Shanks (2010): This review critically analyzes the evolution from association-based theories, like behaviorism, to cognitive theories of learning. Shanks discusses the limitations of behaviorism in explaining complex learning and the cognitive shift towards understanding internal mental processes, hypothesis testing, and the construction of knowledge.

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What Are the Essential Learning Theory Terms Teachers Need to Know?

Essential learning theory terms include scaffolding (temporary support for learning), metacognition (thinking about thinking), schema (mental frameworks for organizing information), and transfer (applying learning to new contexts). Other key terms are zone of proximal development (the gap between current and potential ability) and cognitive load (mental effort used in working memory). Understanding these terms helps teachers communicate effectively about learning processes and research.

What is Proximal Development?

Proximal development is a concept of learning theory based on the idea that learners can achieve more complex end results when support and guidance are provided during their learning process.

Proximal development theory states that learners benefit from having a mentor or teacher provide scaffolding as they progress in their knowledge.

What is Scaffolding?

Scaffolding consists of providing explanations, leading questions, and support through demonstrations or models that allow learners to build on existing knowledge by linking new information with prior understanding.

The theory of proximal development suggests that while a learner's current abilities should form the basis for instruction and practice, it also allows them to acquire new skills faster. Guided practice is a key scaffolding strategy that bridges teacher support and independent learning.

What is Cognitive Architecture?

Cognitive architecture is a theory of learning which attempts to explain how the human mind acquires and processes information. This involves analyzing the different types of mental activity that underlie learning and decision-making, as well as exploring their implications for the design of educational materials and systems.

It's based on the idea that cognitive processes can be broken down into small, manageable steps or 'chunks' which are repeated to eventually build up more complex behaviours. Within cognitive architecture, attention is paid to how people take in new information, store it, use existing knowledge to build up new skills, and react to stimuli in their environment, all of which contribute to successful learning outcomes. Understanding working memory capacity is central to applying cognitive architecture principles in the classroom.

What is Educational Technology?

edtech tools is any form of technology that is designed to support and enhance learning processes. It can include tools such as computers and software, online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, visual aids and multimedia resources.

digital learning tools enables educators to provide a more inclusive and engaging learning experience for their students by helping them access new educational opportunities or materials. By using technology in education, teachers can also assess student understanding more effectively in order to tailor lesson plans for individuals or groups.

The use of learning technology has been shown to increase learner engagement and improve academic performance across different subject areas.

What is Educational Psychology?

Educational psychology is the science of studying how individuals learn in different environments and settings. It deals with how people think, how they respond to their environment, and how they interact with others.

Educational psychologists consider various aspects such as human development and learning theories as they study the cognitive processes that may affect the effectiveness of instruction.

It also examines motivation, attention, memory, emotion, creativity, problem-solving skills and behavior management. With this knowledge, educational psychology contributes to the design of more effective learning strategies for both students and teachers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are learning theories and why should I understand them as a teacher?

Learning theories are research-based frameworks that explain how students acquire, process, and retain knowledge during learning. They provide evidence-based strategies for designing lessons, choosing teaching methods, and understanding why certain approaches work better for different students. The main theories include behaviourism, cognitivism, constructivism, and connectivism.

How can I apply cognitive learning theory in my classroom practice?

Cognitive theory focuses on mental processes and suggests providing students with opportunities for cognitive development through techniques like thinking out loud and asking questions. Teachers should help learners understand their thinking process through metacognition, which includes self-awareness, insight, and reflection. This enables students to develop more control over their learning through self-regulation.

What are the practical benefits and limitations of using behaviourism in my teaching?

Behaviourism works through systematic reinforcement using rewards, praise, and consequences, making it effective for classroom management and skill drilling through techniques like positive reinforcement charts and token economies. However, whilst effective for certain purposes, behaviourism may limit students' intrinsic motivation if overused. It's best used strategically rather than as the sole teaching approach.

How does constructivism change my role as a teacher in the classroom?

In constructivism, teachers act as facilitators who guide exploration and help students make meaningful connections rather than simply delivering information. This approach recognises that each student brings prior knowledge to the classroom and actively builds understanding by connecting new information to existing experiences. Teachers must understand that learning is individual and personal for every student.

What challenges might I face when trying to implement different learning theories?

One key challenge is that assuming all prior knowledge is helpful could derail learning, as past experiences can sometimes become barriers rather than aids. Additionally, behaviourism's reward systems might limit pupils' intrinsic motivation, whilst traditional teaching methods may feel outdated in networked, digital classrooms. Teachers need a wide repertoire of different methods to address the unique ways each student processes information.

How can I use metacognition to help struggling learners in my classroom?

Teaching pupils to think about their thinking transforms struggling learners into self-regulated achievers by helping them understand their own thought patterns and behaviours. Metacognitive processes include self-awareness, insight, and reflection, allowing students to monitor their own learning progress. This approach gives learners more control over their learning process and helps them create better learning opportunities for themselves.

Why do I need to understand multiple learning theories rather than focusing on just one approach?

Every student is unique and processes new ideas differently, requiring teachers to have a wide repertoire of teaching methods to create inclusive learning environments. Different circumstances require different approaches, and learning involves complex emotional, social, and behavioural components beyond just cognition. Understanding multiple theories allows teachers to adapt their methods to improve learning outcomes for all students.