Learner-Centered Psychological Principles: A Framework for School Reform & Redesign

A set of 14 QUESTION_AND_ANSWER flashcards covering the learner-centered psychological principles from the APA framework (cognitive/metacognitive, motivational/affective, developmental/social, and individual differences).

What is Principle 1 about—the nature of the learning process?

The learning of complex subject matter is most effective when it is an intentional process of constructing meaning from information and experience.

What does Principle 2 say about the goals of the learning process?

Successful learners, with guidance, create meaningful, coherent representations of knowledge and pursue personally relevant goals; they refine these goals over time.

According to Principle 3, how should knowledge be constructed?

Learners link new information with existing knowledge in meaningful ways, integrating it so it can be used across tasks and contexts.

What is the focus of Principle 4, Strategic thinking?

Learners develop and use a repertoire of thinking and reasoning strategies to achieve complex learning goals, guided by feedback and models.

What does Principle 5 say about thinking about thinking?

Metacognition: learners monitor and regulate their own thinking, set goals, choose strategies, and adapt if progress isn’t satisfactory.

What does Principle 6 say about the Context of learning?

Learning is influenced by environmental, cultural, technological, and instructional factors, and the classroom climate matters for motivation and success.

What does Principle 7 state about motivational and emotional influences on learning?

Motivation is shaped by emotions, beliefs, interests, and goals; positive emotions can enhance learning, while intense negative emotions can hinder it.

What drives Intrinsic motivation to learn as explained in Principle 8?

Creativity, curiosity, and higher-order thinking—stimulated by novelty, relevance, and personal choice—drive intrinsic motivation.

What does Principle 9 say about the effects of motivation on effort?

Sustained effort and practice are needed to acquire complex knowledge; motivation increases willingness to invest effort and persist.

What are developmental influences on learning according to Principle 10?

Learning is most effective when instruction respects developmental differences across physical, cognitive, emotional, and social domains.

What does Principle 11 emphasize about Social influences on learning?

Learning is enhanced by social interaction and collaboration, supportive relationships, and inclusive, respectful learning climates.

What is covered in Principle 12 about Individual differences in learning?

Learners have diverse strategies and abilities; educators should help students examine and adapt their learning preferences and respond to differences.

How does Principle 13 address Learning and diversity?

Learning is most effective when linguistic, cultural, and social backgrounds are considered and differences are valued and accommodated.

What is the role of Standards and assessment in Principle 14?

Set high standards and use diagnostic, process, and outcome assessments; provide feedback and involve students in self- and performance-assessments to guide learning.