Question

Cognitive learning theorists are concerned only with overt behavior, not with its internal causes. True or false?

Short answer

The statement is false. Cognitive learning theorists are not only concerned with overt behavior, but also with its internal causes.

Step-by-step solution

Define cognitive learning theory

Cognitive learning theory is a broad theory that explains thinking and differing mental processes and how they are influenced by internal and external factors in order to produce learning in individuals. It focuses more on the cognitive processes underlying the behavior and less on the observable behaviors.

Define overt behavior

Overt behavior refers to the actions and behaviors that are observable, in contrast to mental states such as thoughts and feelings which are not observable.

Compare cognitive learning theory to the statement

By comparing the definitions, it is evident that cognitive learning theories are not solely concerned with overt behavior. They are more centered on understanding the internal cognitive processes that lead to changes in behavior, and therefore, the statement is false.

Key concepts

Overt Behavior

Overt behavior refers to actions and responses that can be directly observed. This includes physical activities, speech, and any other externally visible behavior. A good example of overt behavior in education could be a student raising their hand to answer a question in class. These behaviors are important because they are the most tangible evidence of learning and can be readily measured or assessed.

However, while overt behaviors are crucial for understanding how students demonstrate their learning, these observable actions are just the tip of the iceberg. They can sometimes be misleading if not interpreted in the context of the internal cognitive processes that drive them. For instance, a student may raise their hand not because they know the answer, but because they want to appear engaged or receive attention.

Mental Processes

Mental processes encompass the internal, covert activities that occur in our minds, such as thinking, memory, problem-solving, and information processing. Cognitive learning theory emphasizes that these mental processes are central to understanding how learning occurs. For example, when solving a math problem, a student engages in a series of mental processes -- they recall facts, apply rules, analyze data, and synthesize information to arrive at an answer.

From the perspective of an educator crafting content, it's important to scaffold these internal processes and make them more transparent for the student. This can be done by breaking down complex tasks into smaller steps, providing opportunities for self-reflection, and learning strategies that students can internalize and apply independently. Enhancing students' understanding of their own cognitive processes can empower them to become more effective learners.

Learning Theories

Learning theories offer frameworks for understanding how people acquire, process, and retain knowledge. Cognitive learning theory, which includes components of both behaviorism and constructivism, acknowledges the importance of mental processes and posits that learning is a result of mental construction. This differs from behaviorism, which focuses solely on changes in overt behavior in response to stimuli, devoid of any consideration for mental states.

Each learning theory can illuminate different aspects of the educational process and inform different teaching strategies. For example, behaviorism might lead teachers to use more repetitive practice and positive reinforcement, while cognitive learning theorists might encourage the use of analogies, visualizations, and modeling to help make the mental processes of learning more explicit and accessible for students. Recognizing the variety of learning theories encourages educators to adopt a more holistic approach to teaching, considering both the visible results and the cognitive journey that students embark on.