Learning Theories

Learning theories describe views regarding how one acquires knowledge and creates connections among the items of information encountered in the world. In the field of education and child rearing, learning theories do not prescribe exact pedagogical strategies or instructional methods. However, the types of experiences a teacher, caregiver, or mentor provides the learner are influenced by his or her understanding of how people learn. This entry provides an overview of the learning process, describes three major learning theories and their instructional implications, and discusses the key principles in these theories that can be used to provide opportunities for learning.