Cognitive Learning Theory Analysis

Painter, architect, inventor and student of all things scientific Leonardo da Vinci stated, “Learning is the only thing the mind never exhausts, never fears and never regrets.” Learning is defined by as the Oxford dictionary as “the acquisition of knowledge or skill through study, experience or being taught.” Learning is the “process that results in a relatively enduring change in a person or persons.” (Alexander et.al, 2009:186) Learning is also defined as a permanent change in an individual’s mind, voluntary or involuntary. In this paper I will examine the four basic theories Behavioral, Cognitive, Social and Cultural and Constructivism and their definitions of learning, state which theory or theories best supports my understanding of learning,

Cognitive theorist believe that learning happens through the forming and strengthening of neural connections including factors of organization, rehearsal, elaboration and emotional. As theorist have come to the conclusion that learning takes place in a number of ways, learning theories are believed to be the theoretical foundation in describing how information is contained, refined and maintained during learning. The cognitive theory states that knowledge is learned and the changes in knowledge make the changes in behavior possible. Cognitive theorist believe that a person 's prior knowledge determines what that person will perceive, learn, remember and forget. The three-main theorist of Cognitive development are Gestalt, Koffka and Kohler. Gestalt 's theory views learning as consisting of grasping of a structural whole and not just a mechanistic response to a stimulus. Gestalt main concept was that when sensory stimuli is processed a person is very aware of the entire overall pattern. Koffka theory supported the belief that because animals share number on things in common they too can participate in learning. According to Kaffka learning is never meaningless and the existence of facts is more important than the fact itself. Kohler 's theory of learning states that learning can happen by a "sudden comprehension" as to gradually understanding. For this theory reinforcement, review and training is not