Mind Over Matter

Welcome to the world of learning theories! 

Have you ever wondered how we learn? Why do you remember some things more easily than others? This WebQuest will take you on a journey through three major theories of learning: Cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory. 

In this WebQuest, you will explore how we process information, how rewards and punishments shape behavior, and how observing others can change what we do. Understanding these theories will help you think more critically about how you learn, and how you can help others learn too!

By the end of this WebQuest you will: 

- Understand and explain the main ideas of cognitive Psychology, Behaviorism, and Social Cognitive Theory.

- Compare and contrast the three theories using your choice of graphic organizer. 

- Work in groups to create an engaging and informative product (choose from: infographic, slideshow, short video, interactive poster) that teaches these theories to your fellow students. 

- Present your product to the class

1) Group Assignment: You will be placed into groups of 3 (or 4 if necessary). 

2) Research: Each group member will choose one of the three theories to research. Use the following resources to guide your research: 

https://www.simplypsychology.org/theories/learning-theories

https://www.verywellmind.com/learning-theories-in-psychology-an-overview-2795082   

https://www.phoenix.edu/articles/education/educational-learning-theories.html

3) Compare and Contrast: Collaborate with your group to to create a Venn Diagram or some form of comparison chart of the three theories. Use this to help guide your graphic organizer. 

4) Create Your Product: Choose a format (infographic, slideshow, video, interactive poster). 

           - Include:

                  Definitions of key concepts

                  Real-Life examples

                  Visuals or diagrams

                  Engaging, visually pleasing, and age appropriate content

5) Present: Share your final product with the rest of the class and explain the differences among the theories. 

Graphic Organizer Rubric by Jordan Hampton. 

Here is a link to view the rubric for this assignment. Make sure to follow this rubric to ensure you make the highest grade!

Now that you have explored how people learn, take a moment to reflect:

- Which learning theory do you identify with the most and why?

- How could understanding these theories help you as a future teacher, coach, leader? How could they help you in other fields?

- What are some ways that you can apply these theories in real world settings? 

Think about these questions as you finish this assignment. Learning doesn't stop here. Think about how you can apply what you've discovered in your own learning journey and how you could help others to do the same.