Cognitive+Theory

toc =Introduction= The study of psychology has moved between very subjective means (such as psychoanalysis where the psychologist interprets the patient's internal concerns and each psychoanalyst might have a different interpretation) to very objective means (behaviorism where only the behavior is studied rather than internal events ). Cognitive theory has the advantage of being objective and at the same time it accounts for internal events. In fact it is the study of mind-related events such as perception. It is a cross-disciplinary study, using information from computer science, neurology, and psychology in order to explain and predict human behavior.

Cognitive theory has a lot to say about how people learn and, as such, is probably one of the most important theories for a teacher to understand. When we use cognitive learning theory as we design learning experiences, we will be more effective teachers.

One note--Bandura's work is often called "social cognitive theory" but that is different from Cognitive Theory or Cognitive Neuroscience.

=Materials for Learning about Cognitive Theory=

Cognitive Science and Neuroscience Wikibook
Just read chapter 1:

Chapter on Cognitive Theory
This is a worthwhile explanation of cognitive theory in relation to learning.

"How Your Brain Tells You Where You Are"
This is a TED talk: []

Power Point
media type="custom" key="13416680"

=Flashcards= http://quizlet.com/_134rc

=Graduate School Preparation= Read more of the wikibook file above (Cognitive Science and Neuroscience), following your interests in the topic.

=Learning Activity= Think about a skill you have learned, are learning, and/or are teaching. Try to choose something that has been difficult or that you have spent a lot of time (years) learning. How can you understand your learning process in relation to cognitive theory, particularly the stages of learning? What are some ways cognitive theory can help you to be a stronger learner or teacher? What is a concept of cognitive theory that you have been following without really realizing it? How can you use your knowledge of these concepts to make your teaching and learning even more successful?