Jean Piaget stated that, “The development of human cognition, or intelligence, is the continual struggle of a very complex organism trying to adapt to a very complex environment” (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011). This belief system falls under the cognitivism umbrella but is still very closely related to behaviourism. Cognitive psychologists share with behaviourists the belief that the study of learning should be objective and that learning theories should be developed from the results of empirical research. However, cognitivists disagree with the behaviourists in one critical aspect. By observing the responses that individuals make to different stimulus conditions, cognitivists believe that they can draw inferences about the nature of the internal cognitive processes that produce those responses.
This week we looked at different ways to organize data, summarize information, and take notes. Each of these categories was approached from a technological standpoint. Tools such as word processors, spreadsheets, and graphic organizers are a few of the main pieces of technology that were touched upon. I have seen numerous teachers use this technology in the classroom, but it was not until recently that I came to a realization. Without proper planning and intent, these tools can be as ineffective as a daily worksheet or some other form of busy work. When applied within a well thought out curriculum, they can enhance the learning experience and further the cognitive process.
I teach sixth grade math. My students are eleven and twelve years old generally. According to cognitive theorists, my students fall between concrete operational and formal operational periods in their cognitive development. This means that they are beginning to master abstract, logical notions and hypothetical notions. I believe the implementation of technology, especially graphic organizers, can have a great impact on the students learning process. The graphic organizer in particular, for me, lends itself to this enhancement. By being able to see a concept visually, students can assimilate it more accurately and can begin to form opinions and hypotheses about the content being studied. Technology is certainly a useful tool in all parts of the learning process, but it needs to be applied with careful planning and must have the learner in mind.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Program five: Cognitive learning theory [Video webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Retrieved from http://laureate.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=5700267&CPURL=laureate.ecollege.com&Survey=1&47=2594577&ClientNodeID=984650&coursenav=0&bhcp=1
Jason,
ReplyDeleteThere can never be too many concept maps and graphic organizers! As a cognitive instructional strategy, I’ve used these tools to help students put an image to an idea as well as brainstorm various topics by identifying what they already knew. My students were able to facilitate their organization and understanding of new information. Their connections were more meaningful and authentic.
Cognitivism has affected educational theory by emphasizing the role of the teacher in terms of the instructor's effectiveness of presentation of instructional material in a manner that facilitates students' learning. (Ormrod)
Brain research provides educators with a wealth of knowledge. It can be used to guide the way we facilitate our learning. Educators must create a collaborative community wherein all stakeholders can explore, share and implement effective, engaging lessons.
References:
Ormrod, J.E. (1999). Human learning (3rd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall
Jason,
ReplyDeleteI agree that the graphic organizer is a fantastic instructional strategy that I too have used often. The graphic organizer is a great way for the students to brainstorm and organize what they know and to help them make connections. It also helps them process and organize during and after the lesson. In the past I have used paper generated graphic organizers and then moved to technology versions like Kidspiration and Inspiration. I was excited to learn that there are also web based graphic organizers that I can use with my students. I used Spiderscribe for our assignment and had great success. My students really thought it was cool. Which one did you use?
I also agree that with out a well planned out assignment to use graphic organizers to further the cognitive process, it can be an ineffective tool. This is true with many of the instructional tools teachers use. Teachers always need to be intentional with their lessons and make sure they know what the goal of the lesson is, along with engaging the students in a cognitive learning process.