Cognitive Learning Theories

Description: (who, what, when, where, and how)

The focus of reading and discussion in EDAT 6115 this week was on cognitive learning theories. Our discussions in class were based on the using varies strategies during instruction When thinking about cognitive learning it is important to think about the different ways children process information and recognize the various strategies that can be used to help students learn best.

Analyze: (Contained thorough connections to reading materials and discussions from course – including examples and citations). The mind is an amazing tool. It is constantly working and processing new information. Slavin (2018) introduces the concept of information-processing, “…the process by which information is absorbed”

It is in charge of controlling our actions, our feelings, and the way we perceive information. As we grow our brain is growing with us. Our brain development begins at conception (Slavin, 2018, p. 132). Throughout our lives our brain adapts and changes. Slavin (2018) explains the importance of engaging our brains to help learning, “Most researchers believe that in most areas, the brain remains adaptable throughout life in the sense that engaging in activities that straighten particular areas of the brain can have lasting impacts on brain function” (Slavin, p. 134). As educators, it is important to realize the importance of having engaging activities for our students and their

Specifically, I will use what I learned about study strategies to integrate into our AVID program to help my students study the learned information in order to help with retention and storage into the long-term memory. Based on the information I learned, I am able to reflect on previous strategies and activities I have done in my classroom and what I might do differently in the future. Based on what I learned through reading Slavin and through the discussions of my peers I can implement new strategies in my classroom. This school year I incorporated writing into my content area of science and social studies. It was a struggle area for me as I have never taught writing. Through the discussion boards this week my fellow classmate suggested the use of graphic organizers as a strategy to help students with their cognitive development. This is definitely a strategy I will implement next year with my students’ science