The CEDA Meta-Profession Project
ITEM:	LEARNING THEORY
Definition or Description:	Learning Theory deals with various models to explain how learning takes place and to provide a frame of reference for designing, developing, and delivering instruction.
Comment:	Fundamentally, learning theory may be expressed in one of three different frames of reference: Behaviorism: Based on observable changes in behavior. Behaviorism focuses on a new behavioral pattern being repeated until it becomes automatic.  Cognitivism: Based on the thought process behind the behavior. Changes in behavior are observed, and used as indicators as to what is happening inside the learner's mind. Constructivism: Based on the premise that we all construct our own perspective of the world, through individual experiences and schema. Constructivism focuses on preparing the learner to problem solve in ambiguous situations. Schema - An internal knowledge structure. A person adjusts his mental model to incorporate new experiences and make sense of this new information. A person's schema is constantly readjusting.
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References and/or Links:	Schuman, L. (1996). Perspectives on instruction.
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