Course Objectives

ED108 - Learning Theory and Practice

This course covers the different ways individuals learn and apply new knowledge. We start by covering the steps the brain goes through as it processes new information, and how knowledge is stored and retrieved. We then discuss how intelligence is measured and how learners process information through the use of multiple intelligences. Moving from theory to practice, the course shows instructors how to use the learning needs of students to increase knowledge acquisition and retention. The course includes a number of easy to implement strategies to help students retain and use new content.


Module 1: The Learning Process

  • Identify how learning works.
  • Describe the brain's developmental stages and how the brain stores information.
  • Describe the impact of filters on student learning.
  • Identify kinds of memory storage.
  • Distinguish between concrete and abstract thinking.

Module 2: Understanding Multiple Intelligences

  • Determine how types of instruction support the learning process.
  • Define intelligence and how it is used.
  • Describe the process of pruning.
  • Identify different learning preferences and strategies for working with them.
  • Define the different kinds of multiple intelligences.
  • Describe how multiple intelligences are used in the learning process.

Module 3: Using Student Needs as Learning Tools

  • Identify ways of assessing learner needs and expectations.
  • Address learner autonomy.
  • Use pretests for instructional planning.
  • Help students immediately apply knowledge.
  • Apply methods for making course content relevant.
  • Use review as an effective learning tool.

Module 4: Helping Students Retain Course Content

  • Describe how learners decode course content.
  • Assist students with decoding course content.
  • Identify recoding course content strategies.
  • Select instructional supports such as scaffolding, guided notes, graphic organizers and mnemonics to enhance student learning.
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