There are several different types of learning methods. Three of the most common learning theories include the behaviorist learning theory, cognitivist learning theory, and constructivist learning theory. Out of the behaviorist, cognitivist, and constructivist learning theories, the one that I most identify with is the cognitivist learning theory. I identify most with this theory because it focuses more on the processes of learning rather than behavioral outcomes. While the cognitivist learning theory does stress the importance of observable behaviors, it promotes mental processing as well. The cognitivist learning theory also involves the significance of prior knowledge. When students are learning, they are relating the new information with information that they have previously learned.
An activity for a preschool classroom that incorporates methods that are associated with the cognitivist learning theory is sorting and classifying. Children can sort items by type, color, size, or shape. This activity encourages logical thinking and focuses on the process of learning. Children can also apply their prior knowledge when completing this activity. Students may already know different colors or shapes and be able to identify different sizes and sort by type. One item for the children to sort is buttons. Each child could receive a handful of buttons and sort them by color, size, shape, or the number of holes in the button. A mathematical component can also be added to this lesson by having the students count the number of buttons in each pile. Sorting and classifying are both important areas for preschoolers to develop. The cognitivist learning theory can help in developing those areas.
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