Behavioral And Cognitive Learning

In behavioral theory, learning involves changes or modifications in our behavior which had in turn been influenced, strengthened or weakened by the environment or other external influences. The introduction of reinforcers greatly impacts behavior. Cognitive theory, on the other hand, posits that individuals are actively involved in the learning process. Rather than external influences, learning depends on already existing prior knowledge.

Following this logic, this means that each student after a straight lecture will leave the room carrying with him different sets of new knowledge. A major difference between the two theories is that proponents of behaviorists suggest that learning is involuntary while cognitive learning contends that people are in control of their own learning. For believers of the behavioral theory, the approach to training would be the regular use of contiguity and reinforcers.

Contiguity is based on association of experiences that occur in sequence. This is much like Pavlov’s dog which salivates in the presence of food. When food was preceded by the ringing of a bell, the dog soon salivates at the ring of the bell. Introduction of reinforcers is another method employed by the behaviorists. This involves a reward-and-punishment scheme on ending or strengthening behavior. Hence, if you do well as a participant, you would probably receive a positive reinforcement so as to further strengthen such behavior.
For trainers who employ the cognitive learning theories, they will most likely provide lessons organized in a way that would take into consideration a student’s experience and stage of development such that prerequisite trainings may have to be recommended to be taken first before moving on into an advanced stage. General skills will be taught first, reasons and motivations for tasks will usually be provided and group work promoted. Reference Michigan State University. (2005). Teach online. Retrieved January 15, 2008, from http://teachvu. vu. msu. edu/public/design