It is important for Instructional Designers to effectively make the transition from in-class instructors to online instructors. Understanding the similarities and differences of the two environments will ensure successful transition. In this week discussion, we explore the Behaviorist, Cognitive and Constructivist theories of how we learn and the importance of knowing how we learn. In many of the discussions, emphasis was also placed on the importance of understanding how student learns.
Constructivists believe that "learners construct their own reality or at least interpret it based upon their perceptions of experiences. An individual's knowledge is a function of one's prior experiences, mental structures, and beliefs that are used to interpret objects and events." "What someone knows is grounded in perception of the physical and social experiences which are comprehended by the mind." (Jonasson, 1991).
As an Instructional Designer, it is important to understand the three learning theories which will influence the way instructions are developed to cater for diverse students. Research showed that the Constructivism principles are applied in the use of hypertext and hypermedia, where the learner can gain access to a wider area of learning, by controlling what elements they access. The instruction should be more facilitative in nature than prescriptive. Therefore, it is necessary for all Instructional Designers to receive “Constructivist training for Online Teachers”. Gold highlights the transition from in-class instructor to online instructor, and preparation to teach effectively online. The article also, provides a video and information to better understand learner-centered instruction.
While the Constructivism approach supports the use of technology to enhance learning, Marc Rosenberg in his book on Elearning Strategies for Delivering Knowledge in the Digital Age states, that technology in and of itself will not enhance learning. The contrast could mean that some strategies which will work in one environment or situation, will not necessarily work in another. Being able to assess the needs of students and then identifying the best strategies to implement will create the appropriate environment. A comprehensive idea of how to plan and manage your Elearning environment is critical to excel as an Instructional Designer.
Understanding your learning style is useful. Sometimes preparing instructions to cater for all the different types of learners, might not be possible. Learners do not always get to choose how information is received. Therefore, helping learners to become better at the other type of learning styles can be invaluable. Heather Johnson’s blog, “What type of learner are you” offers tips on “The Art of Learning Better: 101 Tips to Find and Fit Your Learning Style”, to help us practice using other types of learning styles.
http://ideas.blogs.com/, http://www.internettime.com/blog/archives/001083.html, and http://en.wordpress.com/tag/instructional-design/, offers a wide variety of information, ideas and comments that can benefit Instructional Designers. Subscribing to some of these blogs will allow us to have access to valuable and practical information.
http://ideas.blogs.com/, http://www.internettime.com/blog/archives/001083.html, and http://en.wordpress.com/tag/instructional-design/, offers a wide variety of information, ideas and comments that can benefit Instructional Designers. Subscribing to some of these blogs will allow us to have access to valuable and practical information.
Reference
Ertmer, P. A., & Newby, T. J. (1993). Behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism: Comparing critical features from an instructional design perspective. Performance Improvement Quarterly, 6(4), 50–71.http://books.mcgraw-hill.com/training/rosenberg/
