Learning Process: The Basic Concepts Of Learning

Chapter- 4: Learning Process

After reading this chapter, you should be able to:

• Appreciate learning process

• The basic concept of learning

• Know principles and doctrines of learning

• Theories of learning

• Learning curve and virtuous learning circle

Introduction

Learning is a relatively permanent change in behavioural potentiality that occurs as a result of reinforced practice. Learning is indexed by a change in behaviour which must be translated into observable behaviour. After learning, learners are capable of performing something which they could not do earlier. It is neither transitory nor fixed. The change in behaviour need not occur immediately following the learning experience. Although, there may be a potential to act

Teachers direct learning. On the other hand, Andragogy theory studies learning process among adults. It emphasizes process more than content and makes the following assumptions about the design of learning: (1) Adults need to know why they need to learn something (2) Adults need to learn experientially, (3) Adults approach learning as problem-solving, and (4) Adults learn best when the topic is of immediate value.

Andragogy requires that adult learners be involved in identification of their learning needs and planning of how these needs are satisfied. Learning should be an active rather than passive process. Adult learning is most effective when concerned with solving problems that have relevance to the learner’s everyday experience.

These Andragogic concepts have tremendous implications for the training and development specialists. Andragogic instructors use more questions realizing that learners do know a great deal, that tapping that inventory permits learners to invest more energy in new

The learner is responsible for his/her own learning

3. Self-evaluation is characteristic of this approach

Role of the

Learner’s Experience

Pedagogical 1. The learner comes to the activity with little experience which can be used as resource for learning.

2. The experience of the instructor is most influential. Andragogical 1. The learner brings a greater volume and quality of experience.

2. Adults are a rich resource for each another.

3. Different experiences assure diversity in groups of adults.

4. Experience becomes the source of self-identity.

Readiness to Learn Pedagogical 1. Students are told what they have to learn in order to advance to next level of mastery.

Andragogical 1. Any change is likely to trigger a readiness to learn.

2. The need to know in order to perform more effectively in some aspect of one’s life is important.

3. Ability to assess gaps between where one is now and where one wants and needs to be.

Orientation to Learning

Pedagogical 1. Learning process is acquiring prescribed subject knowledge.

2. Content units are sequenced according to the logic of subject matter. Andragogical 1. Learners want to perform a task, solve a problem, live more satisfied life.

2. Learning must have relevance to real-life