Customized Learning Theory Aldwin Lauron Liberty University
Introduction Learning is a complex process that involves various factors. As Illeris (2009) writes: “Learning is also a very complex matter, and there is no generally accepted definition of the concept”. Nowadays there are so many learning theories being developed that makes it hard for teachers to choose which learning theory is applicable in a specific learning situation. This paper is designed to present a customized learning theory that specifically focuses on the needs of a primary teacher in a classroom environment. It includes the presentations of basic learning theories, description of an effective teacher, learning characteristics, and some personal reflections for an effective classroom environment. The theories and discussions throughout this paper is founded by solid Biblical truth for the researcher believes that God is the source of Wisdom and it is He who gives Wisdom as Proverbs 2:6 writes: “For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Learning Theory and Its Importance Having a basic understanding on the various learning theories and its processes is necessary for every teacher (Pritchard, 2013). With this, the teacher can properly plan for various activities and lessons in his class to meet the specific needs of learners. With understanding on the learning theories and process, the teacher can be equipped with knowledge and ways to help the students learn more efficiently in the classroom. Below are three important learning theorists that inspired me to develop my own customized learning theory. Piaget believed that all children are born with an innate tendency to interact with and make sense of their environments (Slavin, 2015). As children grow and become more mature, they develop patterns that help them decide what is right and desirable. Another learning theorist that captures my interest is Bronfenbrenner. The focus of Bronfenbrenner’s model is on the social and institutional influences on a child’s development including: family, schools, churches, and neighborhoods, broader social and political influences such as mass media and government (Slavin, 2015). Vygotsky`s view on cognitive development is also important to consider. He believes that learning involves the acquisition of signs by means of information from others and deliberate teaching (Slavin, 2015). He further explains that development occurs as the child internalizes these signs to be able to think and solve problems without the help of others.
Description of an Effective Teacher and Learning Environment Being a teacher is a gift from God. Romans 12:6-7 reads: “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching”. God has given us various gifts or talents and being a good teacher is one of that. But even the most gifted teacher still needs the skills and knowledge on how to teach the proper way to students. Fisher & Frey (2011) as cited by Slavin (2015), stressed that teaching involves planning and preparation, and then dozens of decisions every hour. A good learning environment is an essential part in the learning process. Setting up an effective learning environment is a matter of knowing a set of techniques that any teacher can learn or apply (Poole & Evertson, 2012). Providing an effective learning environment includes strategies that teachers use to create a positive and productive classroom experience. Classroom instruction should enhance intrinsic motivation as much as possible. Teachers you should try to convince students that learning, rather than a grade is the purpose of academic work. This can be done by emphasizing the interest value and practical importance of material students are studying and by deemphasizing grades and other rewards.
Learning Characteristics
All students are created by God in a unique and special way. He made them all perfect having their own uniqueness as Psalm 139:13-14 writes: “You alone created my inner being. You knitted me together inside my mother. I will give thanks to because I have been so amazingly and miraculously made”. In order create a good learning environment, the teacher should consider the individual differences of students in planning their lessons. Beck (2001) suggests encouraging teachers to avoid only using a teaching style that reflects their preferred style and to help students to process learning using the whole brain.
Personal Reflection As a Progressivist, I always aim for individual learning of my students. I plan and design lessons that encourage them to be creative and develop problem-solving skills through various practical life situations. As a teacher, I am only the facilitator of learning, while my student is the center of focus in the learning process. As I give them instructions and activities to work on, I let them explore and find ways to deal with the task using their own initiatives and problem solving skills. I always make sure that learning is directed from different perspectives and considering the needs of my students through projects, cooperative group activities, critical thinking, problem solving and decision making skills. To evaluate and assess the learning of my students, I monitor and observe each of them and make notes of my observations.
Conclusion Learning is a complicated process and as teachers, it is important to understand the theories of learning and the factors that affect the teaching-learning process. Having an idea and understanding on how students learn and how to properly assist them in the learning process is essential for every teacher. Being a teacher is a gift from God and to be an effective teacher, he should develop this gift by getting familiar with the subject matter, have basic understanding on how students learn and the principles behind the learning process, good classroom management skills, and knows to design a good learning environment for the students. God is the source of Wisdom and the great teacher. Nowadays, are so many theories and worldly philosophies what tries to divert our minds from the Word of God and His presence. 1 Corinthians 1:19 says: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the cleverness of the clever I will set aside”. As Christian teachers, we should trust in Him to guide us and help to be effective in our teaching methods. If we trust in God`s Wisdom, we can easily decide how to approach and deal with the learning needs of our students to achieve the best learning outcome.
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