BEHAVIORISTS, COGNITIVISTS, AND CONSTRUCTIVISTS LEARNING THEORIES: A COMPARISON AND APPLICATION IN INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN

Antara Mahbub, Jonathan Beedle

Abstract


To design a particular course for adults, instructional designers must apply one or more learning theories to achieve an effective learning outcome. They should have a deep understanding and vast knowledge of the learning theories and their applications. The purpose of this study is to examine the three fundamental learning theories: behaviorists, cognitivists, and constructivists. Furthermore, it aims to compare the learning theories and explore their application in instructional design. This study applied a comparative analytical approach by reviewing the relevant literature. Peer-reviewed journal articles have been synthesized to gather the data. This study explored the effectiveness of behaviorists, cognitivists, and constructivists’ learning theories in instructional design. This found that a behavioral approach focuses on the observable behavior of learners; it can be used in directions and shaping desired behaviors. Cognitive strategies help teachers with problem-solving as they focus on the mental process, and constructivism is about constructing one’s knowledge from self-directed learning. The appropriateness of applying the theories will depend on the knowledge level and needs of the learner. A blended approach of two or more learning theories can be applied to design an efficient course if needed.

 

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behaviorists, cognitivists, constructivists, instructional design, learning outcomes.

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v12i6.6047

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