Week 2 Discussion-

6/1/2021 Print

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Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter, you should be able to

Explain why learning psychology is a complex field of study.

Identify variables that may affect successful processing of information.

Evaluate the applicability of evolving frameworks to foundational learning theory.

Understand ethical considerations associated with applied learning psychology.

Identify careers that apply learning psychology.

3The Psychology of Learning

Michelle Rosser-Majors, PhD—Ashford

University

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6/1/2021 Print

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James Maddox is the lead case manager for the county department of human services. A new platform for documenting client cases is about to be implemented across the department and James must train all of his case managers to successfully use the system. As he brainstorms training ideas, he recalls the psychology of learning class he took when he was earning his bachelor’s degree in psychology. He knows that the training must communicate the crucial components of the new platform, but he also knows that how he communicates these components, that is, the design of the training, may be even more important. It is essential that the training be effective and engaging. He knows that there are many variables that can affect effective knowledge acquisition and that individuals have complex and diverse learning preferences. He also recalls the different theories that suggest best practices for helping one’s self, as well as others, to learn more effectively. Based on this, he designs what he hopes will be an engaging training that will appeal to many different types of learners and result in long-term knowledge acquisition.

James’s situation reminds us that learning is a part of our everyday lives, whether personal or professional, and also reminds us of the importance of knowing how to effectively support learning opportunities for ourselves and for others. Consider the following questions that might guide James in developing a more successful training event:

What theories of learning can support the development of training materials? What strategies could be utilized to encourage successful learning? How can James learn more about his case managers to better design the training? How might the diversity of his team create stumbling blocks during the training? How might it enhance the training process?