What are the problems and strengths of these theories?

Behaviorism

1. Problems

The learner might find himself in a situation where he needs to respond, but the mental "cues" he has learned to respond to might not exist.

2. Strengths

The learner focuses on a clear goal, his behavior automatically respond to the cues of that goal.

This is effective in situations such as a pilot flying a plane. He automatically responds to the clear goal of the flying route to reach a destination. Imagine what flying would be like if the pilot took time to think about this, rather than automatically responding. Because he might decide to venture from the preset route, there would be no predetermined flying time. How would that affect the passengers' faith in the airline to get them to their destination at a certain time? How would the passengers plan their schedules? How much more chaotic would life be?

Cognitivism

1. Problems

The learner is learning a way to do things, yet it might not necessarily be the the best way.

2. Strengths

If the goal is to train learners to do something all the same way, their mode of thinking, and as a result, their behavior, will be consistent with each other. For example, fast food restaurants have a set way in which orders are taken, food is made, customers are treated, and drive through situations are handled. If the employees were not trained to think in the same way, how efficient or how "fast" would fast food be?

Constructivism

1. Problems

In a situation where the learners are being trained to think and respond in the exact same manner, such as in military training, it is counter-productive to view different realities.

2. Strengths

Because he is able to interpret multiple realities, the learner is better able to deal with real life situations.

This is an important concept to apply when working in teams or dealing with other people. If you do not have the ability to put yourself in others' shoes and see the reality they are coming from, you will not be able to relate to each others ideas and viewpoints.

Content Design: Lisa Schuman
Under the direction of: Donn C. Ritchie

Post a question to the class forum.