An interesting part of chapter two for me was learning about the three metaphors of learning: response strengthening, information acquisition, knowledge construction (Clark & Mayer, 2008, p. 33-35). The authors, Clark & Mayer (2008), ask the reader to pick their favorite description of how learning works (p. 33).
• Learning involves strengthening correct responses and weakening incorrect responses.
• Learning involves adding new information to your memory.
• Learning involves making sense of the presented material by attending to relevant information, mentally reorganizing it, and connecting it with what you already know.
Which one did you pick?
I picked all three because each one can be used to help a learner be successful. Response strengthening can assist learners in memorizing how to spell words or learn basic math facts, Colvin & Mayer (2008) referred to this as directive instructional architecture in chapter one (p. 27). Information acquisition maybe used successfully when a leaner is introduced to a new environment: here is the reading corner; learning centers are over there, etc. Colvin & Mayer (2008) connected information acquisition to respective instructional architecture discussed in chapter one. Finally, knowledge construction is found in the perfect project-based learning plan and referred to in, Colvin & Mayer (2008), chapter one page 27 as guided discovery architecture. Even though I believe all three can be used as a learning tool, I also believe that knowledge construction is by far the most desired from of learning.
I learned about the three metaphors of learning and as I progress in this course I will design lessons with one of these metaphors in mind, with an emphasis on knowledge construction.
Colvin, R. C., and Mayer, R. E. (2008). E-learning and the science of instruction: proven guidelines for consumers and designers of multimedia learning. Pfeiffer and Co.
Hey Barb: Great post. Knowledge construction based upon background knowledge is what we try to build upon in the classroom. If the previous years were taught correctly, then as a math teacher I can use constructivist theories to use your background knowledge to build new understandings.
ReplyDeleteBut sometimes, you do need to build totally new understandings, and that's where instructional practices change. Yes, I knew how to use a computer, but I had no experience with Dreamweaver prior to my time at Boise. This was all new learning. Yes, I can carry some understandings from other software, but not much. This type of learning required me to dig much deeper and spend more time at it because there was no background knowledge to tap from.
You are right that all 3 are viable definitions, and that constructivist beliefs help learners grow. There are times though when new materials come a learners way, and it is tapping into understandings of how to read for meaning and how to study that will matter most. And it is those skills that must be taught too.