Learning, Knowledge and Human Development MOOC’s Updates

Essential Update #4

How can educational psychology help us to understand the processes of learning?

There is no specific learning strategy or approach that suits everyone, hence there are various theories that have been developed to help understand learning differences (WGU, 2020). 

Educational psychology helps to understand the learning differences that exist, and how to work to achieve effective learning, understanding and retention (Dunlosky et al., 2013). The goal is to develop tools or mechanisms that are appropriate for every stage of learning to take place (Dunlosky et al., 2013). It focuses on 'how' to learn. It helps to develop suitable learning styles for every individual, that will improve or enhance their academic state. Psychology explains there are several theories responsible to understand the processes of learning. It is not just about the cognitive, social, and environmental aspect, the emotional aspect should not be undermined. 

REFERENCES

John Dunlosky , Katherine A. Rawson , Elizabeth J. Marsh , Mitchell J. Nathan, and Daniel T. Willingham. Improving Students’ Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology. 2013. Psychological Science in the Public Interest 14(1) 4–58. DOI: 10.1177/1529100612453266

WGU, 2020. https://www.wgu.edu/blog/what-transformative-learning-theory2007.html#close

  • Donna Meacham
  • Cynthia Dotson