Learning Theories & Learning Principles

Andragogy

The theory and practice of adult learning, strongly associated with Malcolm Knowles, emphasizing relevance, experience, self-direction, readiness to learn, and problem-centered learning.

Behaviorism

A learning theory focused on observable behavior and how reinforcement, consequences, repetition, and environmental stimuli influence learning.

Cognitivism

A learning theory focused on internal mental processes such as attention, memory, information processing, problem solving, and knowledge organization.

Constructivism

A learning theory proposing that learners actively construct knowledge by connecting new experiences and information to prior knowledge.

Connectivism

A learning perspective emphasizing learning through networks, connections, people, information sources, and digital environments.

Experiential Learning

Learning through experience, reflection, conceptualization, and application.

Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle

A learning cycle consisting of Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation.

Social Learning Theory

The idea that people can learn by observing others, modeling behavior, and seeing the consequences of others' actions.

Cognitive Load

The amount of information working memory is processing at a given time.

Cognitive Load Theory

A theory emphasizing the limits of working memory and the importance of designing instruction that avoids unnecessary mental overload.

Intrinsic Cognitive Load

The inherent complexity of the material or task being learned.

Extraneous Cognitive Load

Mental effort caused by unnecessary complexity or poor instructional design rather than the content itself.

Germane Cognitive Load

Mental effort devoted to organizing information and building useful knowledge structures or schemas.

Schema

A mental structure that organizes related knowledge and helps people interpret and process information.

Scaffolding

Temporary guidance or support provided to help learners perform a task until they can complete it independently.

Chunking

Breaking complex information into smaller, meaningful units to make it easier to process and remember.

Retrieval Practice

Strengthening memory by actively recalling information rather than simply reviewing it.

Spaced Practice

Distributing learning or review over time rather than concentrating it into one session.

Interleaving

Mixing different but related concepts or skills during practice rather than practicing only one type at a time.

Metacognition

Awareness and regulation of one's own thinking and learning processes.

Transfer of Learning

The ability to apply knowledge or skills learned during training to real-world situations or job performance.

Adult Learning Principle: Relevance

Adults are more engaged when they understand why the learning matters and how it applies to their goals or work.

Adult Learning Principle: Experience

Adult learners bring existing knowledge and experiences that should be incorporated into the learning process.

Adult Learning Principle: Self-Direction

Adult learners generally benefit from having ownership and choice in how they learn.

Adult Learning Principle: Problem-Centered

Adults often learn effectively when instruction focuses on solving realistic problems rather than simply memorizing information.

Active Learning

Learning that requires learners to actively participate through activities such as discussion, practice, problem solving, decision-making, or reflection.

Passive Learning

Learning primarily through receiving information, such as listening to a lecture or reading, with limited active participation.