Summary

In this section, you have learnt the theoretical perspectives underlying four learning theories viz. behaviourism, cognitivism, constructivism and connectivism. These form the "Supporting Theoretical Background" for explaining the learning process in an individual as well as in a collaborative networked situation. While traditional learning theories such as behaviourism, cognitivism and constructivism do contribute to designing learning environment, with the emergence of new technology new theoretical paradigms such as connectivism also becomes relevant in designing a networked learning environment. You have also learnt about the different ‘domains of learning' and seen the contribution of the four learning theories to these domains. New theoretical understanding and assumptions underpinning how adults learn and how principles based on different learning theories contribute to creating effective learning designs are also discussed. All learning theories emphasise the need for interaction. The principles underlying the theory of constructivism are considered to be particularly relevant and useful for designing an online learning environment. The sub-unit ends with a detailed discussion on how different kinds of interaction will promote learning at different levels.

Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License