The learning condition, strategies and theories

Introduction
The process of learning is continuous which starts right from the time of birth of an individual
and continues till the death. We all are engaged in the learning endeavors in order to develop
our adoptive capabilities as per the requirement of the changing environment.
For a learner to occur, two things are important:
1.The presence of a stimulus in the environment.
2.The innate disposition like emotional and instinctual dispositions. psychologist in general
define learning as relatively permanent behavioral modifications which takes place as a result of
experience. this definition of learning stresses on three important points.
Nature of learning
1.Learning involves a behavioral change which can be better or worse.
2.This behavioral change will take place as a result of practice and experience. Changes
resulting from maturity or growth cannot be considered as learning.
3.This behavioural change must be relatively permanent and last for a relatively long time
enough.

Psycholigical need for learning

Two psychologist Miller and dollard were of the opinion that for an individual to learn anything it
requires four fundamental conditions. those are
1.Drive:
An internal state of tension or arousal that motivates behavior. this could be a primary drive (like
hunger or thrust) or a secondary drive (learned through association, like fear or punishment).
2.Cue:
A stimulus that signals the possibility of a reward or the avoidance of punishment.
3.Response:
The behavior exhibited in response to the cue.
4.Reinforcement:
The consequences of the response, which can either increase or decrease the likelihood of the
behavior occurring again.
Principles for learning
Over the years educational psychologists have identified several principles which seen
generally applicable to the learning process. They provide additional insight into what makes
people learn most effectively. Six most important principle for learning are:
1.Readiness
2.Exercise
3.Effect
4.Primacy
5.Intensity
6.Recency
Learning strategies in early childhood:
Early childhood is a crucial period of development when children rapidly acquire knowledge and
skills. Effective learning Strategies are essential for fostering their growth. Here are some key
approaches
Play based learning:
Allows children to explore,experiment and discover through play.
Constructivism:
Children actively construct their understanding of the world through interactions with their
environment.Emphasis on hands-on experiences and exploration.
Inquiry based learning:
Fosters curiosity and a love of learning.Children explore topics of interest through questioning
and investigation.
Social and emotional learning:
Focus on developing self awareness,self regulation,social skills and empathy.build strong
foundation for relationships and emotional intelligence.
Language and literacy development:
Encourages early literacy skills through exposure to books,stories and rhymes promotes oral
language development.
Sensorial learning:
Provides opportunities for exploration and discovery. develops fine and gross motor skills.
Outdoor learning:
Connects children with nature and promotes physical activity.
Effective Early childhood education combines these strategies to create a rich and stimulating
learning environment that supports children’s holistic development.
Theories of learning
Introduction:
In simple terms, theories of learning are ideas about the ways student learn and retain
information.these theories help educators understand the process of learning. Understanding
and application of these theories is essential for effective instruction and successful curriculum
development. It also help teachers manage student’s behavior.some of the prominent theories
of learning are:
B.F. Skinner-Operant Conditioning:
Operant conditioning is a method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for
behavior. Through operant conditioning an association is made between a behavior and a
consequences for that behavior. As a behaviorist, Skinner believed that internal thoughts and
motivation could not be used to explain behavior. Instead he suggested, we should look only at
the externa,l observable causes of human behavior.
Skinner identified three types of responses or operant that can follow behaviour.
Neutral operants
Responses from the environment that neither increase or decrease the possibility of a behavior
being repeated.
Reinforcers:
are any event that strengthen or increase the behavior it follows. there are two kinds of
reinforcers.
positive reinforcers and negative reinforcers.
In both of these cases of reinforcement, the behavior
increases.
Punishment :is the presentation of an adverse event or outcome that causes a decrease in the
behavior it follows.Punishment weakens behavior. There are two kinds of punishment.
positive punishment and negative punishment.
In both of these cases of punishment, the behavior decreases.
Implications in classroom:
Skinner specifically addressed the applications of behaviorism and operant conditioning to
educational practice. He believed that the goal of education was to train learners in survival
skills forself and society. The role of the teacher was to reinforce behaviors that contributed to
survival skills and extinguish behaviors that did not.
Pavlov-classical conditioning
Classical conditioning is a term used to describe learning which has been acquired through
experience. One of the best known examples of classical conditioning can be found with the
Russian psychologist Ivan Pavlov and his experiments on Dogs. In these experiments, Pavalov
trained his dogs to salivate when they heard a bell ring. In order to do this he first showed them
food, the sight of which caused them to salivate. Later Pavlov will ring a bell every time he
would bring the food out. Until eventually, he could get the dogs to salivate. Just by ringing the
bell and without giving the dogs any food. In this simple but ingenious experiment, Pavlov
showed how a reflex (salivation, a natural bodily response) could become conditioned(modified
)to an external stimulus( the bell) thereby creating a conditioned reflects/ response.
Components involved in classical conditioning:
The unconditioned stimulus (UCS) (food)
The conditioned stimulus(CS)( bell)
The unconditioned reflex/response(UCR)( salvation)
The unconditioned reflex/response (CR)(salvation in response to Bell)
Implications on classroom:
The theory believed that one must be able to practice and master a task effectively before
embarking on another one. This means that a student needs to be able to response to a
particular stimulus (information) before he/she can be associated with a new one. Teachers
should know how to motivate their students to learn. They should be versatile with various
strategies that can enhance effective participation of the students in teaching learning activities.
Sigmund Freud’s psychosexual theory:
Sigmund Freud’s psychosexual theory is a cornerstone of psychoanalysis, proposing that
personality development occurs in stages focus on different erogenous zones of the body.
These stages from infancy to adulthood,significantly influence adult personality and behavior.
Feud believe that Children passed through five stages of development known as the
psychosexual stages because of freud's emphasis on sexuality as the basic drive in
development.
These stages are
1.The oral stage( 0 to 18 months)
2.The anal stage( 18 to 36 months)
3.The phallic stage (3 to 6 years)
4.The latency stage( 6 to puberty)
5.The genital stage( puberty onward)
It is the first three stages which takes place in the first five years of life of a child. These
psychosexual stages capture the main growth points of a person from infancy to adulthood and
focus on different facets of wants,needs and desires. Here are three terms freud used within this
theory
1.Libido
2.Fixation
3.Erogenous zone
The basis of freud's theory suggests that a person’s body has several erogenous zones,
believing a person’s libido would grow over time and look for satisfaction through different types
of behaviors using these zones,such as thumbsucking or sex. Depending on what happens in
each stage, a person will quickly move from one stop to the next or develop fixation based on
over indulging or Disruption.
Implications on classroom:
The implication of psychosexual theory in education is the recognition of the importance of early
childhood experience. Freud believe that children pass through various psychosexual stages.
By understanding these stages, educators can identify potential issues or challenges that
children may face during their development. Freud argued that early relationship with caregivers
particularly the mother impact a child’s emotional and social development. By providing a caring
and supportive environment educators can help children build secure attachments and develop
healthy social skills,which are crucial for affecting learning and overall well being.
Erick Erikson's psychosocial theory:
Erikson’s theory of PsychoSocial development is one of the best known theories of personalities
Erikson believed that personality develops in a series of stages.his theory described the impact
of social experience across the whole lifespan. One of the main elements of Erikson's
psychosocial stage theory is the development of “ego identify”. Ego identify is the conscious
sense of self that we developed through social interaction. According to Erikson,our ego identity
is constantly changing due to new experience and information we acquire in our daily
interactions with others. In addition to ego identity Erikson also believed that a sense of
competence also motivates behavior and actions. Each stage in Erikson's theory is concerned
with becoming competent in an area of life. If the stage is handled well the person will feel a
sense of mastery. if the stage is managed poorly, the person will emerge with a sense of
inadequacy. In each stage Erikson believed people experience a conflict that serves as a turning
point in development. In Erikson’s view these conflicts are centered on either developing a
psychological quality or failing to develop that quality. During these times, the
potential for personal growth is high, but so is the potential for failure.
Stages of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development:
1.Trust vs mistrust (infancy, birth to 18 months)
2.Autonomy versus shame and doubt (early childhood 2 to 3 years)
3.Initiative vs guilt (preschool 3 to five years)
4.Industry versus inferiority( school age, six to 11 years)
5.Identity vs confusion (adolescence, 12 to 18 years)
6.Intimacy vs isolation (young adulthood, 19 to 40 years)
7.Generativity vs stagnation (middle adulthood, 40 to 65 years)
8.Integrity vs despair (maturity,65 to death)
Implications on classroom:
Erikson's psychosocial theory provides a valuable framework for educators to understand and
support student social and emotional development. By applying his insights, teacher can create
a more nurturing and effective learning environment.
By recognizing students developmental stages, teacher can adapt teaching methods and
materials to meet their specific needs and challenges.
Showing genuine interest in student's thoughts and feelings help build strong relationship based
on trust and respect.
Understanding the psychosocial crisis students face can help teachers provide appropriate
emotional support and guidance.
By Incorporating Erikson theory into classroom practice, teachers can create a more supportive
and engaging learning environment that promotes students’ overall well-being and
academic success.
Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development
Cognition refers to thinking and memory processes and cognitive development refers to long
term changes in these processes. One of the most widely known prospectives about cognitive
development is the cognitive stage theory of a Swiss psychologist named Jean Piaget. He
studied how children and youth gradually became able to think logically and scientifically.
Piaget believed that learning was proceeded by the Interplay of assimilation (adjusting new
experiences to fit prior concepts) and accommodation (adjusting concepts to fit new
experiences).The to- and-fro of these two processes leads not only to short
term learning but also to long term developmental change.
After observing children closely,Piaget proposed that cognition developed through distinct
stages from birth through the end of adolescence. By stages he meant a sequence of thinking
patterns with 4key features:
1.The stages always happen in the same order.
2.No stage is ever skipped.
3.Every stage is significant transformation of the stage before it.
4.Each later stage incorporates the earlier stages.
Piaget proposed four major stages of cognitive development which are
1.Sensorimotor intelligence (0 to 2years old)
2.Pre operational thinking (2 to 7 years old)
3.Concrete operational thinking (7 to 11 years old)
4.Formal operational thinking (11 years old and older)
Each stage is correlated with an age period of childhood, but only approximately.
Implications on classroom:
Piaget believes that children must not be taught certain concepts until reaching the appropriate
cognitive development stage. Also accommodation and assimilation are requirement of an
active learner only,because problem solving skills must only be discovered they cannot be
taught. The primary role of an instructor is to facilitate learning rather than direct teaching.
Hence, teachers need to ensure the following practices within the classroom
1.Pay more attention to the learning process.
2.Use active teaching involving reconstructing or rediscovering truths.
3.Use individual and collaborative activities.
4.Access a child’s development level so appropriate tasks can be created.
John Bowlby attachment theory
John Bowlby was appendering psychologist who developed the attachment theory. This theory
suggests that infants have an innate need to form a strong, emotional bond with at least one
primary caregiver usually the mother. This attachment bound is crucial for the child’s emotional
and social development.
Key points of attachment theory:
Biological basis:
Bowlby believed that attachment is an innate behavior similar to imprinting in animals. It is a
survival mechanism that keeps infants close to their caregivers for protection and care.
Internal working model:
The quality of the attachment relationship with the primary caregiver forms an “internal working
model” that influences the child’s expectations and behaviors in future relationships.
Long term effects:
Secure attachment lead to healthy emotional development while insecure attachments can have
negative consequences for social, emotional and cognitive development.
Implications on classrooms:
Bowlby’s attachment theory has profound applications for classroom dynamics and student
outcomes. By understanding the significance of secure attachments and recognizing the impact
of insecure once, educators can create more supportive and effective learning environments.
Teachers should strive to create a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported
and understood. This provide a secure base from which students can explore their learning.
Establishing Trust is essential for creating a positive learning environment.students who trust
their teachers are more likely to engage in learning and seek help when needed.
Albert Bandura Social Learning theory:
Albert Bendura’s social learning theory is a psychological perspective that emphasizes the
importance of observational learning, imitation and modeling in the development of human
behavior. Unlike traditional behaviorism,which focuses on direct reinforcement,Bandura
highlighted the role of cognitive processes in learning.
Key components of social learning theory:
Observational learning:
People learn by observing the actions of others and the consequences of those actions.
Imitation:
Individual copy the behaviors they observe in others.
Modeling:
People serve as examples for others to observe and imitate.
Cognitive processes:
Mental processes such as attention, memory and motivation influence learning and behavior.
According to Bandura observational learning involves four key stages
1.Attention
2.Retention
3.Reproduction
4.Motivation
Implication on classroom:
This theory offers valuable insight for educators to create effective and engaging learning
environment.
Teachers should be mindful of their actions as students are constantly observing and imitating
them.
Older or more advanced students can serve as models for younger or struggling peers.
Teach students to analyze and evaluate media messages helping them to discern between
positive and negative role models.
Invite successful individuals to share their stories and inspire students.
By applying these principles, teachers can create classrooms where students are motivated to
learn,develop positive behaviors and reach their full potential.
Social cultural theory of lev Vygotsky
Lev Vygotsky is a prominent psychologist whose sociocultural theory has significantly influenced
our understanding of child development and learning. This theory emphasizes the role of social
interaction and culture in shaping cognitive development.
Key concepts:
Social interaction:
Vygotsky believe that learning is inherently social. children learn through interactions with more
knowledgeable others such as parents, teachers and peers. this interaction facilitates cognitive
growth and development.
Zone of proximal development:
This is the cap between what a child can achieve independently and and what they can achieve
with guidance from a more knowledgeable other. It’s the area where learning and development
occur most effectively.
Scaffolding:
This refers to the support provided by a more experienced individual to help a learner master a
task. As the learners become more competent the support is gradually withdrawn.
Language:
Vygotsky emphasized the importance of language in cognitive development. he believed that
language is a tool for thought and it shapes how children think and understand the world.
Culture:
Wagonski highlighted the role of culture in shaping cognitive development.different cultures
provide different tools and opportunities for learning,influencing how children think and learn.
Implications on classroom:
Vygotsky theory has had a profound impact on education it has led to focus on
encouraging students to work together to solve problems and learn from each other.
providing appropriate support to student as they learn new skills.
creating learning experiences that are relevant to students’ life and cultures.
supporting students’ language development through rich and varied
language experiences.