With all learning theories there are similarities and differences and they build upon one another. This is true of cognitivism and behaviorism. Cognitivism and behaviorism are similar because they both deal with the behavior of learning. The difference is that behaviorism focuses on the observable changes in behavior as the result of stimulus and cognitivism focuses on the thought process as the result of the behavior.
Both Bill Kerr’s and Karl Kapp’s blogs were very insightful. Sometimes we can fall into the trap of wanting to utilize the most current or popular theory. But it is important to use the theory that is pertinent to the current situation. None of the “isms” will every fully explain how we process information. I definitely agree with Kapp (2007), that we may “need to take the best from each philosophy and use it wisely to create solid educational experiences for our learners”.
This debate on learning theories will be continuous because we all think, interpret, and comprehend information differently and will always have our own points of view. Isn’t this the premise of learning theories?
References
Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html
Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/
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