Cognitive Theory In Technical Education

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

Theoretical framework of the study

Conceptual framework of the study

Technical education use technical information derived from theories and principles guiding a particular teaching and learning activities or the use of computer assisted instruction in line with scholars in vocational/technical education. Theories are structure of rules, thoughts, beliefs and ways that apply to subject matter when seen different from the practice. A theory is a set of interrelated constructs, definitions and propositions that present a rational view of phenomena by explaining or predicting relationships among those elements (Camp, 2001). According to the author, theoretical framework therefore, is a set of theoretical assumption

This is refers to change in behavior, an external change that can be observed (Schuman 1996). Cognitive theory is an approach to psychology that attempts to explain human behaviour by understanding the thought processes. The cognitive learning theories explain why the brain is the most incredible network of information processing and interpretation in the body as we learn. Cognitive learning theory can be divided into two specific learning theories: the social cognitive theory (SCT) and the cognitive behavioural theory (CBT). Cognitive learning theories also include that of gestalt psychologist and that of cognitive revolution psychologist. The gestalt psychologist by Max Wertheimer (1880- 1946), Wolfang Kohler (1887- 1967) and Kurt Koffka (1886- 1941) made substantial contribution to Gestalt psychology and emphasized the importance of organizational process of perception, learning and problem solving. Gestalt cognitive theory states that for learning to take place, there must be some changes that not observable in mental or cognitive structures. To observe what is happening in the learners mind, change in behaviour must be noted and used as indicators to ascertain that. Cognitive theorists view learning as involving the acquisition or

Cognitive psychologists challenge the limitation of behaviourism in its focus on observable behaviour. Changes in behaviour are observed, and used as indicators as to what is happening inside the learners mind (Dembo, 1994). Ogwo and Oranu (2006) states that cognitive theory is significant to the entire learning process because, it stresses on human intelligent and its potential for helping learners to retain, process and apply acquired information in future. Cognitive learning theory encourages problem solving learning which is necessary in teaching brick, block and concreting work. An environmental model clearly implies that for effective and positive learning to occur, an individual should have positive personal characteristic, exhibit appropriate behaviour and stay in a supportive environment. Instructional theory is heavily influenced by the 1956 work of Benjamin bloom a university of Chicago professor, and the results of his taxonomy of education objectives. One of the first modern condification of learning process. Curzon (1982) explained that learning of vocational education is based on three objectives; skills, related technical knowledge and appropriate