Cognitivism in the Class: New tools and toys to enhace cognition.

Last week we looked at the influences of behaviorism in the classroom. This week we will focus on the cognitive learning theory. The cognitive learning theory focuses on how information is taken in by learners, how that information is processed and then what is done with that information (Learning-Theories.com, 2014). Whereas behaviorism focused on the external signs of learning, cognitivism focuses on the inner workings or schema of the learner. The cognitive learning theory emphasize the exploration of mental process such as memory and problem-solving in order to better understand the process of how people learn (Learning-Theories.com, 2014). This week we explored instructional strategies and technology tools that support the ideas of the cognitive learning theory.

My new favorite technology-based cognitive tool is the concept map. I have always been a big fan of graphic organizers, but to be honest I have only recently used an online version. Graphic organizers support cognitivism because they enhance a student’s ability to “retrieve, use and organize information” in a way that encourages comprehension and retention (Pitler, Hubbell, & Kuhn, 2012, p91). I gave www.spidercribe.net a test drive with a group of summer school students ranging in age from 3 to 6 earlier this week. We had a lot of fun working our way through the interactive map. The students were engaged and it was easy to add notes or enhance the illustrations. In that same lesson we took a Virtual Field Trip or VFT to explore the wonderful world of ladybugs. The VFT helped this group of summer learners to explore aspects of this small creature in a way that many of them could not on their own (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011). Both of these activities combined in one lesson encouraged student engagement and to become actively involved in critical thinking and information processing activities (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011).

There are many summarizing and note taking technology-based tools that can be used to enhance lessons at various age groups. One of my favorite tools is www.wordle.net. Wordle creates unique word clouds based on the frequency of words typed into the word bank. This tool allows the creature to visually show the importance of a word or phrase within the context of the topic. Other tools that enhance cognition are collaborative note taking programs such as www.typewithme and www.docs.google.com. These tools allow a group of learners to collect their combined information into one location (Pitler et al., 2012).

I have recently come in possession of an iPad though work. This new acquisition opens a number of doors for exploring interactive organizing, note taking and summarizing apps. The versatility of the iPad is very appealing. I love how you can type or use the stylus to write and draw as well as link video and audio files (Pitler et al., 2012).

Just in case I piqued your interest in the wonderful world of ladybugs you can find a great slow motion video of a ladybug flying at http://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/33568843592

I welcome your suggestions for other great technology-based tools that encourage cognative learning experience.

References

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Program six: Spotlight on technology: Virtual field trips [Video webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Retrieved from http://laureate.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=5700267&CPURL=laureate.ecollege.com&Survey=1&47=2594577&ClientNodeID=984650&coursenav=0&bhcp=1

Learning-Theories.com. (2014). Cognitivism. Retrieved from http://www.learning-theories.com/cognitivism.html

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E. R., & Kuhn, M. (2012). Using technology with classroom instruction that works (2^nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: ASCD.