CC Paper 2

Sage Hoppe
“Learning” Revolves Around Many Theories
While the definition of “learning” can be made simple enough when speaking of the learning
style and method of only oneself or a handful of individuals, that does not realistically
encompass the vast similarities and differences between every single learner. Therefore, the
definition of learning must be revised to be rigid enough to define the word learning, but flexible
enough to work for every learner. Everyone on Earth is learning, from the initial stages of
infancy through the reaches of adulthood and wisdom. This means that the definition of learning
needs to be stretched to encompass the eight billion people on planet Earth. This may sound
daunting, but it is possible; we need to focus on the learning theories to acknowledge everyone’s
differences.
The dynamic and cognitive processes of learning itself are rooted in the psychological theories of
learning: behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, connectivism, and humanism. People learn
in diverse ways and employ different strategies, and what does not work for one person could be
the best strategy in the world for the person sitting at the very next desk. While some strategies
are as simple as trial and error, or action and positive/negative consequence, the methods can
become increasingly complex and employ many types of technology. In class, many of these
technologies were covered, leading to a deeper understanding of their applications for diverse
types of learning.
One of the technologies covered in class was virtual reality. The very first time I remember
hearing about VR was in early middle school. Someone told me that there was an innovative
technology where if one put on certain glasses and opened Google Maps or a similar application,
it would look like you were in a chosen city or country in real time. Since the shock I felt upon
hearing that, VR has grown immensely in both popularity and uses, including the ability to use it
for learning.
The use of virtual reality in learning has many advantages, such as breaking the language
barrier to use it whilst learning in an area that speaks a language you may not be familiar with, or
even using it in a gaming context to practice a new language. Also, using VR in an elementary or
middle school setting could make learning easier and more fun for children who may just need to
try something new or a change of scenery (Hicks, 2016). It can also connect to various learning
theories by facilitating diverse instructional approaches. For example, for behaviorism, it
implements an immediate feedback mechanism, such as instant pronunciation/grammar feedback
in a language learning environment.
However, as is well-known in modern society, virtual reality can have both health/safety
and social concerns. Prolonged use of VR headsets can lead to motion sickness or fatigue for
some users, limiting the overall effectiveness. Also, excessive use of VR could isolate one from
the real world or hinder collaborative learning/interpersonal skills.
Another technology covered in class was Quizlet. Quizlet is a highly effective and
popular learning mechanism due to its various features that can adapt to most anyone’s learning
style. It facilitates active learning and knowledge by allowing learners to share and create study
materials, and exchange and discuss new knowledge within established study groups and
communities. This source of collaborative learning and exchange of knowledge is an example of
the connectivist theory. Connecting with other people while learning has been proven to be
effective in memory retention and problem solving.

In conclusion, defining "learning" requires a balance between simplicity and complexity,
recognizing the diversity among learners while providing a framework that can accommodate
every individual. As everyone on Earth engages in the process of learning from infancy to
adulthood, the definition of learning must be flexible enough to encompass everyone’s many
experiences and backgrounds. By focusing on learning theories, we can acknowledge and
address the unique differences among learners, ensuring that the definition of learning remains
inclusive and applicable to all.

Works Cited
Hicks, P. (2016, December 29). The Pros and Cons of Using Virtual Reality in the Classroom.
eLearning Industry; eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/pros-cons-using-
virtual-reality-in-the-classroom

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Sage Hoppe

“Learning” Revolves Around Many Theories

learning: behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, connectivism, and humanism. People learn

theories by facilitating diverse instructional approaches. For example, for behaviorism, it

implements an immediate feedback mechanism, such as instant pronunciation/grammar feedback

in a language learning environment.

the real world or hinder collaborative learning/interpersonal skills.

communities. This source of collaborative learning and exchange of knowledge is an example of

effective in memory retention and problem solving.

experiences and backgrounds. By focusing on learning theories, we can acknowledge and

inclusive and applicable to all.

eLearning Industry; eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/pros-cons-using-

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