Let’s go over some of the fundamentals of Learning Theory on this article: Today we’ll talk about the different types of learning. This is a very important topic because knowing about the different types of learning that exist is crucial for your own learning and for developing effective instructional strategies that foster an inclusive learning environment and help ensure the success of all learners.

Main types of learning

The most widely recognized types of learning within the field of Learning Theory are these five:

• Classical Conditioning: Perhaps the most well-known type of learning, Ivan Pavlov’s, classical conditioning is a way we learn things by connecting a new event with something that naturally happens. For example, imagine you hear a sound right before you feel a burning pain. After hearing the sound and feeling the pain a few times, you might start to react to the pain just after hearing the bell, even if there's no actual pain.

• Operant Conditioning: This is a learning method that involves changing behavior through reinforcement (positive or negative) and punishment.

• Observational Learning: Also known as social learning or vicarious learning, this type of learning occurs when an individual learns by observing the behaviors of others.

• Rote Memorization: Memorizing through repetition.

• Cognitive Learning: This type of learning involves mental processes, such as attention, memory, and problem-solving. It encompasses various learning styles and strategies, including meaningful learning, elaboration, organization, and metacognition.

• Constructivist Learning: Constructivist learning emphasizes the active role of the learner in constructing their own understanding and knowledge through experiences and social interactions.

Here are a few more types that are important to be aware about:

• Problem-Based Learning (PBL): PBL is an instructional approach that emphasizes active learning and problem-solving. In PBL, learners work collaboratively to solve real-world problems, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the process.

• Inquiry-Based Learning: This type of learning encourages learners to ask questions, explore, and investigate in order to construct knowledge. It fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

• Experiential Learning: This is a process in which learners actively engage with experiences, reflect on those experiences, draw conclusions, and apply their newfound knowledge to new situations.

• Self-Regulated Learning: This learning framework emphasizes the role of the individual in controlling their own learning processes. Self-regulated learners set goals, monitor their progress, and adapt their learning strategies as needed.

• Situated Learning: Situated learning theory posits that learning is most effective when it occurs in authentic contexts and involves social interaction.

Optimal types of learning by age

Does the age of the learner determine which type of learning is best for them?

Great question! Yes, different types of learning can be more effective for specific age ranges, as they align with the developmental stages and cognitive abilities of learners. Here are some generalizations (so these are not absolute rules):

• Early childhood (0-5 years): In this stage, children learn primarily through play, exploration, and social interactions. Constructivist learning, observational learning, and experiential learning are often most effective for young children, as they support cognitive, emotional, and social development.

• Elementary school (6-11 years): As children grow, they become more capable of abstract thinking and problem-solving. At this stage, cognitive learning strategies, inquiry-based learning, and guided discovery can be effective in fostering curiosity and developing foundational skills.

• Middle school (12-14 years): Adolescents become more capable of self-regulation, critical thinking, and reflection. Problem-based learning, self-regulated learning, and collaborative learning approaches can help them develop higher-order thinking skills and autonomy.

• High school (15-18 years): High school students are capable of complex reasoning and abstract thinking. At this stage, a combination of different learning approaches, including experiential learning, problem-based learning, and self-regulated learning, can be effective in preparing them for post-secondary education and careers.

• Adults: Adult learners often benefit from self-directed, experiential, and problem-based learning approaches, as they typically have more life experiences and practical knowledge to draw upon. These approaches can help adults apply new knowledge to real-world situations and promote lifelong learning.

There is SO MUCH to explore just in this area alone. We will be deep-diving into these types of learning in the coming weeks, so subscribe and stay tuned for future articles!