Julia N. Visor Academic Center

Why learn about theory?

Theory does not necessarily need to be memorized, but it does provide a useful framework for the work we do with students.

Theory helps guide our actions with students, which can help us make each session or interaction the most effective and meaningful it can be.

Behavioral Learning Theory John Watson was the first to study how

learning affects our behavior, leading to the formation of “behaviorism”.

This theory has also been greatly advanced by the concepts of classical and operant conditioning. Classical conditioning: Pavlov’s dogOperant conditioning: Positive/negative

reinforcement

Behavioral Learning Theory

This theory asserts that learning is shaped by both positive and negative experiences.

Behavior is either punished or reinforced, which determines whether or not the behavior is likely to occur again.

Therefore, modeling is crucial to the development of good learning behaviors.

Why is this important?

If students’ behaviors are adaptable, how can this help us in our work?

What types of behaviors should we be modeling for our tutees?

Cognitive Developmental Theory Much of cognitive developmental theory

is accredited to the work of Jean Piaget. Piaget believed that there were four

stages of cognitive development-- most college students are in the final stage of development: formal operational. In this stage, students are using deductive

logic, thinking abstractly, and will use these skills to solve problems.

Cognitive Developmental Theory William Perry also theorized about the

intellectual development of college students.

Perry believed that students progress through various stages dualism, multiplicity, relativism, and finally, commitment.

The stages of dualism, multiplicity, and relativism are the most pertinent to your work as students.

Cognitive Development According to Perry… Dualistic students are those who see the

world in terms of right or wrong, true or false.

These students tend to view their professors and likely their tutors, as authority figures who have all the correct answers.

Cognitive Development According to Perry… Students who progress to multiplicity

understand that the world is not “black and white” and that there are many perspectives related to a given problem or situation.

A typical response might be “Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion.”

Therefore, students recognize there are multiple perspectives but lack the ability to choose one over the other.

Cognitive Development According to Perry… Relativistic students see knowledge as

relative to particular frames of reference. Frequently, by seeing alternative

perspectives, they have difficulty making a decision.

Authorities are seen as people who can and should be questioned.

Cognitive Developmental Theory Why might it be important to understand

the development of students’ intellectual abilities?

How might it be beneficial to understand what stage a student might be in?

Social Interdependence Theory In the early 1900s, the concept of social

interdependence was explored. Social interdependence exists in any

situation where “individuals share common goals and each individual’s outcomes are affected by the actions of others”.

Social Interdependence Theory Social interdependence theorists

purports that students learn best when “promotive interaction” occurs.

When students encourage one another, constructively challenge each other’s reasoning, or provide each other with feedback, promotive interaction has occurred.

Social Interdependence Theory How can we help students engage in

promotive interactions? When might these interactions be

especially useful?

Interpretive/Critical Theory This theory asserts that learning should exist to

overcome oppression in society. In other words, knowledge is powerful. This theory is also related to the notion of a

“culture of silence” developed by theorist Paulo Freire.

As described by Freire, a “culture of silence” is a culture in which dominated individuals lack the ability to critically respond to a culture that is placed upon them by a more powerful party.

Interpretive/Critical Theory How might learning help decrease our

likelihood of living in a “culture of silence”?

Do you see any evidence of a “culture of silence” at ISU or in the United States?

Student Learning and Theory Great job! You’ve learned a lot about

learning theory today! What theories do you feel will most help

you in your work? Are you able to envision ways of

applying these theories to your work?

Questions?