Cognitivism and Behaviorism

Cognitivism and Behaviorism

It is believed that cognitivism and behavorism are closely related.  Cognitivism uses mechanisms and information processing as the basis for interpreting findings.  Behaviorism is the study of behavior to determine results.  Cognitivism goes further than behaviorism because it involves the mental processing of information and not just behavior.  Kerr (2007) mentions that "learning theory, like politics, is full of _isms."  These isms can not explain the entire learning process or stand alone (Kerr, 2007).  Behaviorism uses stimulus and responses to analyze behavior in the world.  Similarly, Cognitivism uses information processing as a way to explain how information is remembered and to understand the world.

References

Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved fromhttp://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/

Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved fromhttp://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

I believe that in order for individuals to learn they have to be able to memorize what is being taught.  Understanding what is being taught plays a major role in learning, but if the student doesn't remember the lesson they have learned nothing.  Behaviorism is a reward or punishment system that could motivate students to focus on memorizing what has been taught.  I also think it is important that a student is allowed to learn at their own pace.  Based on some individuals having a better memory than others, it will be easier for them to grasp what is being presented to them.  It might take a little more time for some to grasp the lesson being taught.  In this digital age, online discussions kind of closes the gap as far as learning at a slower pace goes.  Students now communicate with each other online based on topics that are being presented in class.  If some students grasp whats going on before others in an online course, they can help their peers through online discussions.