The Cognitive Learning Theory in Action

This week’s learning resources offered great insight into the use of Cognitive Learning Theory as educators.   I found that in my classroom; practice many of the component pieces of the CLT without even knowing that I am doing it.  Those components are limited short term/ working memory, elaboration, dual coding hypothesis, and network model of memory” (Laureate Education, 2010).  Dr. Orey points out that use and understanding of these methods are great ways to teach students and provide a deeper understanding.

Dr. Orey discusses the idea of network memory in which each idea is connected to another.    He also mentions that concept mapping replicates the network model of learning.  I liked the idea of using Inspiration software as a mapping tool.  In college I became familiar with the software and really enjoyed using it, but I have not utilized it as a teacher.  I feel that allowing kids to visualize the connections that should be made internally is a founded way to create lasting learning.  I have created hard copies of concept maps, but the software will really allow students to make the connections in a manner that make sense individually instead of a map created by me.   

Inspiration also allows students to use dual coding.  It is noted that people can remember pictures much better than text Laureate Education, 2010).  The visualization created by the advanced organizers will serve to create strong learning connections.  Another strategy for instruction through CLTs is through the use of media (Pittler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).   I use a lot of PowerPoint in my instruction and with those slides I include tons of pictures weather it is the Holocaust or Vietnam, pictures accompany notes to paint a picture of what it was really like during those time periods.  This serves to create a more complete picture of events in the past. 

The final component of CLT is elaboration.  Elaboration allows individuals to store information in long term memory.  I feel that use of pictures and movie clips allow kids to make connections.  They may not be the type of connections that we would make but what is important that it works for them.  For instance a clip of the movie We Were Soldiers starring Mel Gibson may help a student connect the information of Vietnam.  They may have seen another Mel Gibson movie and they connect his appearance with the reality of jungle warfare.   In making these types of connections, students elaborate on information that they already have stored and connect that with new information to formulate a new understanding.

References

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). [Webcast]. Cognitive learning theory.

             Baltimore: Laureate Media. 

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom

instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.