Table of Contents
Chapter 1 – Learning: Introduction, Issues, Historical Perspectives
Learning Defined
Learning Theory and Research
Functions of theory
Conducting research
Methods of Assessing Learning
Direct observations
Written responses
Oral responses
Ratings by others
Self-reports
Precursors of Modern Learning Theories
Learning theory and philosophy
Beginnings of the psychological study of learning
Structuralism and functionalism
Critical Issues in the Study of Learning
Which processes affect learning?
What is the role of memory?
What is the role of motivation?
How does transfer occur?
Which processes are involved in self-regulation?
What are the implications for instruction?
Relation of Learning and Instruction
Historical perspective
Instructional commonalities
Integration of theory and practice
Three Learning Scenarios
Kathy Stone’s third-grade class
Jim Marshall’s U. S. History class
Gina Brown’s educational psychology class
Summary
Further Reading
Chapter 2 – Conditioning Theories
Connectionism
Trial-and-error learning
Laws of exercise and effect
Other principles
Revisions to Thorndike’s theory