By: Chantae Garrett, Michelle Cairy, Kenneth Guidry, and Raul Garcia

A change in knowledge or skill through instruction or study Learning. (2009). In Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. Retrieved March 19, 2009, from

How educators design and plan instruction is based on the needs and problems of learners Strong correlation between instructional design and theories of human learning Three main learning approaches are evident in research: behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism Integrating technology software, programs, and websites, etc., into core subjects links theory to instructional practices

Behaviorism is a learning theory in which a learner learns through conditioning of a particular task. This conditioning happens through what is called a Stimulus-Response or S-R Cycle approach. A learner is given a stimulus and he/she must give some kind of response. In addition, behaviorism learning has been known to be repetitious and goal oriented.

Computer –enhanced instruction (CEI) should be designed by providing learners with drill and practice tasks. Correct responses should be followed by a reward. It must also evolve from simple to more complex tasks as the learner progresses through a particular task. The transfer of learning in the behaviorist theory occurs when the learner can apply the knowledge in similar, yet slightly different situations.

DK’s My First Math Adventure FFundamentals of addition and subtraction AAdjusts games to every student’s ability  Promotes independent thinking to finding solutions  Children develop problem solving skills

What is Cognitivism? Cognitive theorists recognize that much learning involves associations established through contiguity and repetition. They also acknowledge the importance of reinforcement, although they stress its role in providing feedback about the correctness of responses over its role as a motivator. However, even while accepting such behavioristic concepts, cognitive theorists view learning as involving the acquisition or reorganization of the cognitive structures through which humans process and store information. (Good and Brophy, 1990, pp. 187). Good, T. L., & Brophy, J. E. (1990). Educational psychology: A realistic approach. (4th ed.). White Plains, NY: Longman.

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In brief, constructivism is the process where: Learners construct their own reality or at least interpret it based upon their perceptions of experiences, so an individual's knowledge is a function of one's prior experiences, mental structures, and beliefs that are used to interpret objects and events. What someone knows is grounded in perception of the physical and social experiences which are comprehended by the mind. Jonassen, D. H. (1991). Objectivism versus constructivism: Do we need a new philosophical paradigm? Educational Technology, Research and Development, 39(3), 5-14.

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No one theory is better than the other The behaviorist, cognitive, and constructivist approaches all provide a foundation for selecting the best teaching strategies Whether cognizant or not, educators use these theoretical approaches when integrating technology instruction – programs, websites, and/or activities are selected because they meet the needs of learners

Good, T. L., & Brophy, J. E. (1990). Educational psychology: A realistic approach. (4th ed.). White Plains, NY: Longman. Jonassen, D. H. (1991) Objectivism versus constructivism: Do we need a new philosophical paradigm? Educational Technology, Research and Development, 39(3), Learning. (2009). In Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. Retrieved March 19, 2009, from,