Cognitivism in Practice

I am drawn to some of the instructional strategies in this week’s text because of the subject matter I teach. My responsibility at the middle school is to teach students how to use technology to become better organized and therefore better prepared for the future. I am a technology / engineering teacher. In this week’s text Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malenoski (2007) discuss the value of using word processing and spreadsheet software and mention that; “they are extremely versatile and well suited as tools to create advance organizers” (p.75). Two of the programs I focus on in class are Microsoft Excel and Word.

Cognitive learning theories revolve around information processing. In the DVD “Cognitive Learning Theories” Dr. Orey notes that there is a limit to how much information a person can process at one time. The goal is to transfer this information from short term memory into long term memory. I believe the use of instructional strategies which involve Microsoft Excel and Word can be very helpful because they are also great organizational tools.

Visual representation is also a very important part of cognitive learning practices. People retain information better when it is associated with a visual representation. This brings me to the next learning tools: concept mapping and virtual field trips. Both incorporate the visual aspect of presenting information along with other methods such as cues, questioning. These tools are ideal for introducing new material as well as activating prior knowledge.

REFERENCES
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Cognitive Learning Theories [Educational video]. Baltimore: Author.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.