Essential Learning Theories

Research-based theories provide the basis for good decision-making in education. As well, teacher effectiveness and student learning are enhanced when research-based theories are used to design curriculum and daily lessons. This book examines human learning in the context of four types of research-based learning theories: neurological learning theories, behavioral learning theories, cognitive learning theories, and transformative learning theories. With each theory, the basic elements are described along with specific classroom applications. The writing style makes these concepts readily accessible to readers of all levels of experience and expertise. This book is appropriate for preservice teachers who are seeking to comprehend the basic ideas behind these theories. It is appropriate for practicing teachers who want to understand and apply these theories at increasingly higher levels. It is also appropriate for decision-makers or anybody else who wants to understand human learning and educational processes. This book ends with a description of lesson planning that is set in the various theoretical contexts and includes a guide for defining an educational philosophy.