Walden University – Course 6711: Week 3 Application

Dr. Orey discusses cognitive learning theory and states that, “it’s not that you forget it [information]; [but instead] you forget how to get to it” (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009). Cognitive learning theory addresses the need for making connections with information in order to recall it later. Dr. Orey’s observation prompts the questions; how do we get kids to learn information for the long-term?

There are various instructional strategies that can help with this. Cues (picture, gesture or verbal) can be used as quick triggers to help students recall information. Questions can be used to direct students; helping them find the answer on their own with minimal teacher guidance. Advanced Organizers allow students to put their thoughts on paper and visually map out what they know about a topic or concept. Summarizing forces students to process new information and show their understanding by putting into their own words the information or concept being taught. Note Taking is a “drill and practice” technique that reinforces what is being said or read, by having students physically write important bits of information to help them recall the information later.

These strategies correlate to the cognitive learning theory in that it gives learners ways to make connections with what is being taught so that they can recall it at a later date. The more of the strategies utilized during student learning, the higher the chances are students will retain the information; storing it into their long-term memory.

Resources:

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Cognitive Learning theories. Baltimore: Author.