In order to discuss some learning theories, I have broken it down into theories and provided some key examples. I also specifically connected it to French Immersion/language learning as this context sometimes creates a few different considerations. The final video by CLILandthings makes me as a French Immersion teacher reflect on these things even more.

Behaviorism:

Although behaviorism tends to be a “old” theory, I think that there is still place for it and many teachers still use it in order to set up expectations and routines. Lots of positive reinforcement is applied to show students what is expected. Comments like I see so and so ready to learn, who else is ready to learn? As well as in French Immersion specifically, many teachers use this approach to promote French speaking in their classroom, this can be done through French tickets or various programs (here are some to name a few) that follow the reward idea of this theory. Follows this approach. In terms of language learning this theory really focuses on imitation and repetition, which is important for vocabulary acquisition but it is not the only teaching practice. This theory tends to be combined with other theories in order for our students to be able to make mistakes and explore language.

This Ted Talk does a really nice job at emphasizing the importance of making mistakes in language learning.

Constructivism

In terms of constructivism, I value that this theory recognizes more of the learning process as it allows students to make their own connections and make meaning. Therefore various answers will be shared when asking students “what did you learn?”. This theory aligns with BC curriculum as it promotes the learner to go beyond their learning and take risks. This leads into the idea of making mistakes which is so important in language learning and within our classrooms. In order for children to feel like they can do this a classroom community needs to be established so that we are respectful to all ideas and mistakes. This is often done through behaviorism approach. 

Constructivism and Experiential learning

Constructivism and experiential learning really focuses on the learning experience and process. In my teaching and past learning experience. I really benefit from this approach as it helps learners make connections and see beyond the concepts. Notably, it opens our learning to our community by participating in field trips or personal projects guided through inquiry.

What theory best describes your belief around how learning takes place?

I am not sure I can select one learning theory as I believe they are all interrelated and various aspects can contribute to learning. I do have a strong belief about the connectivism learning theory, experiential and inquiry. These theories help create a learning environment where we can be curious, creative and learn from each other while we valuing our strengths and interests.

My most memorable experiences where those I got to share my interests (dance performances as I spoke about in earlier posts) and make personal connections and I think for my students it would be the same. They talk about the inquiry projects and field trips we do. It is never about what they failed it is about the experiences. Whether that was an experiential learning field trip or a project, anytime they got to share and be involved was key.

Ultimately this video does a nice job summarizing how we can take elements from each learning theory to benefit our practice and that there is no best practice as everyone learns differently.