Personal Learning Theory

My personal learning theory consists of many different terms and principles learned throughout this semester. The first thing I learned was that each student is different! As a teacher it is essential to highlight these differences and be willing to accommodate them. We can accomplish this by using the theory of multiple intelligences and by trying to use different approaches for everything we teach.
One of the most important things for students and teachers to learn is the value of self-efficacy. When students realize that they can learn positive progress takes place and they learn increases exponentially. We also need to give students a sense of autonomy- independence to learn and to complete tasks. When they are given choice in their education and feel like they have some degree of control they will have more focus and will become a more valuable member of the class. As teacher we also need to help our students develop their self-esteem and self-concept. In order to accomplish this we need to foster a positive environment in our classroom where everyone’s opinions are valued and their beliefs are taken into consideration.
My personal learning also consists of the view that a social environment is one of the best ways we can learn. This includes the concept of the social learning theory- a theory that emphasizes learning through the observation of others. I also believe that a constructivist approach is important with teaching. The learner needs to have an active an active role in their learning, make discoveries, and look for opportunities for growth. It is important for students to realize the significance of a more knowledgeable other in this process. This concept also applies to the cognitive apprenticeship. I believe that as teachers we need to form positive relationships with our students and provide a relationship that is stable and is based on trust. As students begin to trust us, they will be willing to take risks regarding their education. We will then be able to help them explore new areas of growth and take their learning to the next level. We can help the students engage in observational learning through our example. We can teach them new concepts and help them to develop their intellectual skills in these types of setting where relationships are valued. It is also important for us as teachers to scaffold our instruction. The more help the student receives the more success they will experience which will encourage them to continue learning. We can also scaffold out instruction through other students and the knowledge and skills they have.
When students are learning they need to immersed in a variety of techniques to help them learn and internalize the information being presented. I believe that the best way to do this is to give the students many opportunities for both collaboration and cooperative learning. When students are working in a group they are able to use the ideas of others to strengthen and enhance their own. They can also develop their critical thinking skills by juxtaposing their ideas with others and forming new opinions based on the new information begin presented. This will also help students to get rid of their functional fixedness. As they work alongside others and gain new perspectives they will be more willing to try new things and to attempt tasks in a different way.
In terms of behavior my learning theory is based on the idea that students need some motivation to complete required tasks and to participate in the classroom. As a teacher I believe the best way to do this is through positive reinforcement. I want my students to know that I notice when they are on task and focus on their positive behaviors. I will do this through implementing an intermittent reinforcement schedule where their behavior will not always be rewarded right away but will be rewarded eventually.
When assessing my students I will rely on tests that focus on students skills and what they have learned, not necessarily numbers, facts, and data. I will try to use all forms of assessment to appeal to the different learning styles in my class including constructed-response, authentic assessments, and achievement tests. Overall I want my students to see education as their opportunity for growth and for my classroom as their gateway to gaining self-confidence, become a better student, and succeeding in their present and future academic pursuits.