Lesson 3: Behaviorism, Cognitivism, and Constructivism

Introduction

In this lesson, we’ll be reading and reviewing three guiding theories: behaviorist, cognitivist, and constructivist. The behaviorist perspective was historically influential in framing learning during the 1900s and focused on observable behaviors as indicators for learning, as well as the use of rewards to mediate learning. Indeed, behaviorism was the foundation on which many early instructional design models were based, with primary emphasis on measurable outcomes and behaviors. While behaviorist models are not as prevalent in instructional design or technology-based learning environments, it is useful to review the framing of learning within this theory to understand how different theories can impact design, development, and assessment of learning.

In addition, we will also review cognitivist perspectives on learning, which are closely allied to behaviorist perspectives in assuming an objectivist view of learning, wherein learning could be empirically measured and prescribed. However, cognitivists focus on the mental processes of individuals and attempt to infer the mental processes that result in a specific outcome. Cognitive perspectives are still very prevalent in instructional design, especially for both face-to-face and computer-based training purposes. We will then get a brief overview of constructivism, which will lay some of the groundwork for future traditions that we will explore together.

Objectives

After completing this lesson, you should be able to do the following:

• Identify principles of behaviorism.
• Discuss how learning is presumed to occur within a behaviorist paradigm.
• Discuss cognitivist approaches to learning.
• Identify for what types of learning a cognitive approach might be applied appropriately.
• Appraise when a constructivist approach to learning is being implemented.
• Identify for what types of learning a constructivist approach might be applied appropriately.

Lesson Readings and Activities

By the end of this lesson, make sure you have completed the readings and activities found in the Course Schedule.

Remember to engage with your group via Slack by Tuesday evening. Continue the discussion from the last lesson by reviewing and responding to classmates during this lesson. Likewise, you will continue the discussion from this lesson during the next lesson.