When weighing which teaching practices to use with students, educators must consider how students acquire knowledge and skills. After all, how well students actually learn material is ultimately what measures the success of instruction and curriculum.
Over the years, researchers have deepened educators’ understanding of how learning happens, and numerous learning theories have emerged from their work. Familiarity with these learning theories provides context for the factors that influence learning and which teaching methods are most effective for achieving various objectives. Knowledge of learning theories helps educators make more informed curriculum design and instructional decisions, supporting positive student outcomes.
This guide serves as an introduction to learning theories and explores the four major ones: behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism and social learning theory. It also discusses how Arkansas State University’s online Master of Science in Education (MSE) in Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) program prepares education professionals to apply learning theories in real-world settings.
What Are Learning Theories?
Learning theories are frameworks that describe how students acquire, process and retain knowledge. They explain how learning happens. Teachers can turn to learning theories when selecting teaching methods, such as lecture or modeling, and when adopting classroom strategies, such as scaffolding and group work. The ultimate goal is to select strategies that align with the theory’s explanation of learning and promote positive student experiences.
Effective curriculum development and instructional planning rely heavily on learning theories. When creating curricula, directors can refer to learning theory to inform decisions about the sequence of concepts, the depth of content and the types of activities and assessments. Theories about learners’ prior knowledge, cognitive load, and motivation and engagement can provide valuable insights into how best to personalize instruction for individuals and groups alike.
Behaviorist Learning Theory
Also called behaviorism, behaviorist learning theory focuses on stimulus-response learning. It holds that learners acquire skills through repetition, practice and feedback to strengthen desired behaviors. When taking a behaviorist approach, educators use measurable, observable behaviors to evaluate success. They also typically set clear expectations and rules to reduce ambiguity.
Behavior learning theory has many practical applications in the classroom. For example, educators can use positive reinforcement, such as praise and rewards, to encourage participation and task completion. Behavior tracking systems, such as tokens and point charts, are another way teachers use reinforcement mechanisms. Creating structured learning environments to promote consistent behavior patterns also has its roots in behaviorism.
Cognitive Learning Theory
Think of cognitive learning theory, or cognitivism, as the opposite of behaviorism, as it centers on internal mental processes rather than observable behaviors. Cognitivism focuses on how students perceive, organize, store and retrieve information, asserting that learning is actively making meaning, not just responding to stimuli.
The principles of cognitive learning theory support the use of strategies such as scaffolding, chunking information and metacognition that help students connect with concepts and internalize them over time. Curriculum design that takes a cognitive approach often builds on prior knowledge and promotes a deep understanding of the course material.
Constructivist Learning Theory
Sometimes called constructivism, constructivist learning theory states that learners are active participants who construct meaning rather than receive it passively. It emphasizes experience, reflection and interaction, believing that students must integrate new information with prior knowledge in a personal context.
With a constructivist approach, the teacher serves as a facilitator of learning, guiding rather than being the sole source of knowledge. Practical applications of constructivism include inquiry-based, collaborative and experiential learning activities.
Social Learning Theory
Social learning theory considers how students learn through observing and modeling the behaviors, attitudes and outcomes demonstrated by others. Proponents believe that social interaction, reinforcement and how students assess the competency of role models drive learning and often prioritize attention, retention, reproduction and motivation.
Educators can put social learning theory into practice by creating opportunities to learn through interactions with peers and the community in educational settings. Group work and mentorship are common applications of the theory, as is culturally responsive teaching, an approach that ties students’ languages, cultures and lived experiences to content.
Applying Learning Theories in Curriculum and Instruction
Educators do not need to choose a preferred learning theory to base all instructional and curriculum design decisions on. In fact, integrating multiple learning theories is an effective way to meet students’ diverse needs. The more teachers know about these theories, the better they become at developing and implementing differentiated instruction and inclusive classroom practices.
Teachers are not the only education professionals who benefit from a strong foundation in learning theory. Curriculum directors, educational technology designers and other C&I specialists can use theories to analyze students’ needs and customize materials appropriately.
Proficiency in applying learning theory takes time to achieve. Advanced preparation in curriculum and instruction through graduate-level education, such as A-State’s online MSE in C&I program, can equip educators to apply theoretical frameworks effectively.
Ground Your Instructional Design in Learning Theory
Mastery of learning theories can position you to make evidence-based instructional decisions and develop effective curriculum, whether your role is in the classroom or instructional design and support. If you are ready to deepen your understanding of key theories, graduate-level C&I education can help you achieve your goal and sharpen your skills, contributing to your professional development.
A-State’s online MSE in Curriculum and Instruction program puts the opportunity to further your education within reach. Designed for working education professionals, the program boasts a flexible online format and affordable tuition for both in- and out-of-state students. The curriculum includes coursework on learning theories and tracks for curriculum directors, special education directors, and gifted, talented and creative directors. In addition, students can take courses necessary for reciprocal educator licensing through the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
Learn more about A-State’s online MSE in Curriculum and Instruction program.