Evolving Personal Theory of Learning...

Personal Theory of Learning

To describe my “Personal Theory of Learning” I have to recall all I have studied and a great deal I have observed in my role as an educator. Each of the roles has helped me build my theory of learning. By utilizing personal trials and tribulations, educational resources, and professional colleagues, I have been able to better develop attributes that help me connect my students to their learning. My learning theory is evolving daily with each new strategy learned and with each new student I am given, therefore it is necessary for me to shape my instructional practice so that all learners flourish and excel ultimately becoming an environment of total learning immersion. Classroom environment, excitement, accountability, and materials are imperative for a successful learning environment.

Before delving into my personal learning theory, I had to define learning theory and instructional theory and their differences to ensure my teaching approach is applicable to all learners. According to Dr. Michael Orey learning theory is, “learning mechanisms within the mind during the learning process,” (LAUREATE, Inc., 2008) and instructional theory is, “strategies for changing the learning environment to facilitate learning” (LAUREATE, Inc. 2008). When developing my lessons I am mindful of differing student learning styles and preferences. Each lesson will have a bit of whole group instruction, small group discussion and investigation, as well as hands on manipulation; I have learned regardless how often I teach a lesson it is never taught the same twice. When teaching to differing learning styles I take into account both learning theory and instructional process. The learning environment is typically the first comment noted when visitors arrive to my room.

Upon entering my classroom your senses are awakened by vibrant colors, a pleasant scent, a multitude of displayed student work, and an abundance of books / manipulatives and technology. Of course the classroom is “standards based,” so all documentation is appropriately labeled and displayed, but also other materials, including executive classroom materials, are clearly marked and easily accessible. From construction paper and glue to the daily schedule and classroom rules, all are visible. It is my opinion that the classroom is the first step in preparing ones brain for learning. Having a proper and comfortable workspace makes the students more willing for their day at school; having materials and expectations clearly displayed gives constant reminders so all are accountable in keeping classroom order.

When instruction begins, the small heterogeneous groups listen to an overview and watch modeling of lesson through whole group instruction utilizing a Promethean board, document camera or other form of technology. The groups will then begin their assigned circuit fulfilling the assigned task, whether it a hands-on, or stay in their desks for individual or small group work, which can appeal to all learning styles thus better enabling an immersive learning environment. Healthy discussion, both whole group and small group, is encouraged and rewarded with praise, which encompasses each of the four learning theories: Behaviorism, Constructionism/Constructivism, and Social Constructivism Dr. Orey highlights. By ensuring each of these theories is met in lessons, students will construct or build a better basis for learning and storing knowledge.

As previously noted, my Personal Learning Theory is constantly evolving. It seems I reflect not only after each lesson, but at times after each mini-lesson. At week 7 of this course I will again write this assignment without reviewing this first; I will then read this and “reflect” at my “Personal Learning Theory’s” evolution. Here we go…