Active learning ideas
Not all learning happens through direct rewards or associations; much of what we know comes from watching others or through internal mental processes. This topic covers Observational Learning (Bandura), where students learn about the importance of 'modelling' and the 'Bobo Doll' experiment. It also explores Cognitive Learning, including Insight Learning (Kohler) and Latent Learning (Tolman), which emphasize the role of 'thinking' and 'mental maps' in the learning process.
Activity 01
Small groups act out a scenario where a 'younger sibling' copies the behaviour (good or bad) of an 'older sibling.' They must identify the four steps of observational learning: Attention, Retention, Motor Reproduction, and Motivation.
How do we learn through observation?
Activity 02
Give groups a complex 'out-of-the-box' puzzle to solve. After they find the solution, they must reflect on the 'Aha!' moment and explain how it demonstrates Kohler's theory of Insight Learning.
What is insight learning?
Activity 03
Students describe the path they take from the school gate to their classroom. They discuss with a partner how they 'learned' this without being specifically rewarded for it, demonstrating Tolman's concept of Latent Learning.
How do cognitive maps facilitate learning?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Observational learning is just 'copying'.
It involves complex cognitive processes like retention and motivation. Role plays help students see that we don't copy everything we see; we choose what to model based on the consequences we observe for others.
If you don't show you've learned something immediately, you haven't learned it.
Latent learning shows that we can acquire knowledge without immediate reinforcement, and it only shows up when there is a reason to use it. The 'mental map' activity helps students understand this 'hidden' learning.
Methods used in this brief
Classical and Operant Conditioning
Introduces the paradigms of classical and operant conditioning. Students explore how associations and consequences shape behaviour.
8 methodologies
The Information Processing Model of Memory
Explores the stage model of memory, including sensory, short-term, and long-term memory. It details the processes of encoding, storage, and retrieval.
8 methodologies
Causes of Forgetting and Mnemonics
Analyzes the theories of forgetting, such as interference and trace decay. It also provides practical strategies and mnemonics for enhancing memory.
8 methodologies