Instuctional Strategies that Support Cognitive Learning

This week the authors of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works discussed using cues, questioning, and advanced organizers to promote student learning. Cues and questioning are strategies that help students understand a little bit about what they are soon to learn, while advanced organizers can be used both prior to learning and during learning (Pilter, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malensoski, 2007). All three strategies can promote the cognitive learning theory by creating images and elaborating on prior knowledge (Laureate, 2009).

When beginning a new unit, the teacher may decide to use a K-W-L chart he or she has created by using Microsoft Word. The K-W-L chart creates an image that students are able to refer back to as the unit progresses. The K-W-L chart also allows students to elaborate by adding new information to the image as the unit progresses. Depending on the age level, this chart may be updated by each individual student on their own computer. Allowing for students to update the image individually builds a stronger base of prior knowledge.

Allowing classes to take virtual field trips prior to a unit being taught is another way to build background knowledge through images (Laureate, 2008). Virtual field trips allow students to see pictures of a specific place in more detail than a text book often provides. Virtual field trips also lend themselves to use cues and questioning prior to the start of a unit. This again gives students the opportunity to create images in their minds transferring the newly gained knowledge from short term to long term memory.

The cognitive learning theory is a great theory in my opinion. Students who are able to make connections to what is being taught have much more success remember ring the knowledge for longer periods of time. Using technology to create these images through graphs, charts, and virtual field trips are away to accomplish this.

References:

Laureate Education, Inc.(Producer). (2009). Behaviorist Learning Theory [Motion Picture]. Bridging learning, theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.