In the Walden University, Learning Theories Instruction class, I was introduced to many different learning theories from Behaviorism to Adult Learning. I discovered that it is important to know and use learning theories eclectically rather than picking a theory and designing all learning products around it. I am now much more aware of a broader range of ways in which people learn and how learning theory can be applied to learning design. I have already been able to apply this knowledge about learning theories in my current job and in explaining effective learning to others. When we first started the class, we were asked to assess our own learning style. My assessment was that I learn exclusively by the behaviorist and cognitivist approaches to learning (Wright, 2013). I now know that I cannot characterize myself or anyone else in one particular learning style or preference. Individual learning styles vary from subject to subject (Gilbert & Swanier, 2008). I must consider and use a variety of them in designing learning products because people learn differently in different situations and at different times. As I have learned about learning theories and styles more in depth, I have discovered that there are valid points in all of them that can be applied to the ways that I learn.
Of particular interest to me was the theory of multiple intelligences by Howard Gardner. The eight intelligences are linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist (Armstrong, 2000). Individuals possess all eight intelligences; however, they often possess more of one than another (Armstrong, 2000). Each of these intelligences can be developed if the person is exposed to enrichment, encouragement, and instruction (Armstrong, 2000). So, my view of my own learning style has changed from static to dynamic. Since I am more aware of this fact, I can now focus on developing some of my less prominent intelligences to become a better learner.
I have also realized that technology has and is playing a significant role in my learning. This class has made me more aware of how much I rely on blogs and the internet for information on a daily basis, especially in my current job, but also in my personal life. I have recently discovered ways to use my iPad for reading blogs about things that interest me. It helps keep me current on new instructional design techniques and theories that I would otherwise not read. This course has opened my eyes to various learning theories and styles, but I still have a lot to learn about how they can be applied. I believe this is a great opportunity for me to become more of an adult learner and self-direct my learning about learning even further so that I can become a more effective instructional designer
References
Armstrong, T. (2000).
Multiple intelligences in the classroom (2nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: Association
for Supervision and Curriculum Development
Gilbert, J., &
Swanier, C. (2008). Learning styles: How do they fluctuate? Institute for
Learning Styles Journal [Vol. l]. Retrieved from http://www.auburn.edu/~witteje/ilsrj/Journal%20Volumes/Fall%202008%20Volume%201%20PDFs/Learning%20Styles%20How%20do%20They%20Fluctuate.pdf
Wright, Charles P.
(2013). Week 1, Discussion 1. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_2651650_1%26url%3D
