How people learn is difficult to measure and define because we are all so different and have unique backgrounds and cultures. When I think about explaining my theory for how people learn it is difficult to explain how it functions for everyone. However, through my experiences and reading about different learning theories, I have come to the conclusion that the way we learn is a mixture of sociocultural learning and constructivism.
In typical Marissa Misura fashion, I wanted to show my theory for learning in a mathematical and methodical way. When I encounter the word "theory" I think of theorems. In math, theorems are statements thought to be true and can often be proven true with different methods of proof. As a teacher, the three main methods of proof that I show my students are: two-column proofs, flow-chart proofs, and proofs by construction. In a proof you take what is given to you and through a series of linking true statements you come to a conclusion which is what you are trying to prove true. I have completed a two column proof of my theory for how people learn below. Theory of Learning By: Marissa Misura Given: A sociocultural and constructivist environment. Prove: People will learn.
Despite how much this proof shows my thinking, sometimes my students (and I) struggle with two-column proofs. So I also show my students how to prove things using flow-chart proofs. I like flow-chart proofs because you can start with what you are trying to prove true and work backward until you connect all the ideas to what is given to be true. In the short gif below I completed my theory for learning proof in the flow-chart style, the complete proof in the picture following that, in addition to my previous two-column proof.
Finally - and sometimes the most fun way to prove something true - is proof through construction. A proof by construction often uses mathematical tools, such as a ruler or compass, to help show something is true. In reflecting on my two weeks of in-person learning during my hybrid program at MSU, I realized this was exactly a proof by construction! During our two weeks, I was taking in all of the knowledge presented to me by my professors and peers more knowledgeable others - and then constructing new knowledge that was uniquely my own. I was collaborating in small groups in our classes and during our many field trips. During Ed Camp when I suggested a session on Interactive Student Notebooks (ISN). In the session, I shared my ISN knowledge and experience with small group of educators. I am hopeful that they learned from me, as I surely gained new ideas when talking with them. By taking all these experiences together I am constructing the proof that we learn by being guided by those around us who are more skilled (sociocultural learning) as well as building that knowledge off of previous knowledge and experiences that we have had (constructivism).
Just like some theories in math cannot be proven true, I cannot truly prove my theory for learning is infallible. But, based on my experiences and observations of my students I have found teaching successes when using this theory of learning when creating opportunities for my students.
Resources:
Cherry, K. (2022, June 3). Sociocultural theory of development. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-sociocultural-theory-2795088 Kurt, S. (2021, February 21). Constructivist Learning Theory. Educational Technology. https://educationaltechnology.net/constructivist-learning-theory/ Misura, M. (2022, August 12). Theory of Learning [Image]. Misura, M. (2022, August 14). Theory of Learning, Flowchart Proof [Video]. https://youtube.com/shorts/NTEsLMHX_xs?feature=share Misura, M. (2022, August 14). Theory of Learning, Flowchart Proof [Image].
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AuthorMarissa McGregor, high school math teacher extraordinaire. I love my husband, daughter, and family dearly. Archives
August 2022
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