Information processing theory or how we remember and why we forget

Information Processing Theory

This weeks lessons involved information processing, and the brain & learning.  Long term memory and short term memory seemed to be the big topic, and the process of how we store and recall information from those memories were discussed.  I found that the process of recall fascinated me.  Because of that I searched for web sites and articles that had to do with cognitive learning theories.  I have listed a few below.

The first site I discovered this week was http://www.elearninglearning.com/.

This site is devoted entirely to e-learning on the web.  With resources dating all the way back to 2000, this is quite possibly the most comprehensive collection of articles, e-books, webinars, blog posts and resources for the instructional designer.  There is a page devoted specifically to cognitive learning theory with links to may articles on learning concepts.  The side bar contains a list of the top 70 e-learning articles for design professionals.  There is a webinar hosted by the site on Tuesday Nov. 16^th  titled “Learning in Today’s World: Blending the Best of Formal, Informal and Social Approaches-Lessons From Real Life.” This is possibly the best site for instructional designers.

The next discovery for me was an article titled Connectivism: Learning theory or pastime of the self-amused from elearnspace.org.  Siemens,G .Retrieved February, 2006 - elearnspace.org http//:www.elearnspace.org/articles/cognetivism_response.doc. “The externalization of thought is an important concept to consider in light of traditional theories of learning largely emphasizing knowledge construction and cognition as primarily internal events (in the mind of individuals).  (p.14)  In his 39 page article George Siemens argues that in order for learners to learn, not only do they need to internalize information, but it is necessary to connect that information to outside experiences.  He debates that knowledge acquisition does not necessarily equate with learning.  This is a great article on learning theory and if theories and methods of old are valid to today’s learner.

Other resources on information processing theory.

Sternberg, Robert J. & Zhang, Li-fang  Perspectives on Thinking, Learning and             Cognitive Styles. (2001,2010) Routledge. Retrived from: http://site.ebrary.com/lib/waldenu/docDetail.action?docID=10288559&p00=co            gnitive%20learning%20theory  it can be found in the Walden Library using document ID 10288559

Sprenger, M. (1999) Learning and Memory : The Brain in Action, Association for             Supervision & Curriculum Development. Retrieved from:

http://site.ebrary.com/lib/waldenu/docDetail.action?docID=10110324&for            ce=1&page=53 this can be found in the Walden Library using document ID 10110324