I've made it through Week 1 of Educational Psychology. Wow, it is really difficult for me to be a student AND work my full-time job. As it is, I can barely keep up with my job AND still sleep. I suppose this is a good lesson into how my students feel sometimes.
This week, I read about five different learning theories, completed the Learning Theory Assignment, and chatted with peers on the discussion board. It was a good review of the learning theories and of things I had learned before. I've got to admit that I am not a huge fan of theories. Theoretical stuff isn't as interesting as just getting out there and doing it. However, I understand why the theories exist, and they are important to know.
The thing that stands out the most relates to behavioral theory. I hate the thought of learning as conditioning and of learners not having to think or put much work into what they learn. However, being realistic, I use behavioral theory all the time. Students wouldn't do assignments if these assignments didn't earn points. Students wouldn't come to class if they weren't required to and if participation didn't play a role in their grade. Maybe it is different for core classes that students are truly interested in, but for general studies classes, the intrinsic motivation isn't always there.
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An interesting book, if you ever find yourself with time, is Alfie Kohn's Punished by Rewards. He talks about how grades and rewards in education have undermined curiosity and the desire to learn.
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