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Jean Piaget and Child Development Theory
Piaget believed that children develop their neurological systems through experiences. When they encounter a problem they either assimilate it or accomodate it into their current knowledge. Piaget is well respected among educational theorists and this is still used for teaching students critical thinking. The internet can be used to exchange ideas for getting students to think critically or just in ways they haven't thought of. -
Lev Vygotsky and Scaffolding Theory
Vgotsky's Scaffolding theory explains the Zone of Proximal Development. This is the cognitive area for a child to be at for a certain age. The child needs to build on experiences they already know. The Zone of Proximal Development is still used today to describe the best skill level for a child to learn so they will be challenged, yet not overwhelmed or bored. Technology can be used to help determine or adjust to a child's zone to encourage a genuine desire to learn. -
John Dewey and Social Activism Theory
John Dewey was a proponent of Social Activism Theory that believes learning is done through social experiences. Dewey was progressive and encouraged a more student-centered classroom instead of only the teacher giving knowledge to students. Computers and the internet work well with this theory by allowing students to explore our world and learn new things on their own. -
First computer used for instruction
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B.F. Skinner and Behaviorism
B.F. Skinner believed in Behaviorism. This was the learning theory that believed in operant conditioning. Behaviorism is sometimes applied in special ed classrooms and often as a means of classroom management in gen ed classrooms. Use of the computer as a reward for completed work is often used today in the classroom. -
First computer used with school children
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University time-sharing systems
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Robert Gagné and Cognitive-Behavioral Theory
Gagné believed that learning is shaped by providing the best conditions for instruction. He also believed that certain prerequisites must be learned before learning certain skills. Today students have to demonstrate mastery of certain skills before proceeding to the next level. Computers can provide accurate information rapidly at a certain skill level to make sure students learn prerequisite skills. -
Jerome Bruner and Discovery Learning
Bruner believed cognitive growth comes from interacting with the environment and that children will learn better from actual experiences instead vicarious ones. Today, teachers provide students the opportunity to perform experiments in lab to have a hands on approach to their education. Technology allows students endless possibilties to explore and experience the world. -
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Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) movement emerges
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Mainframe and minicomputer applications dominate field
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First microcomputers enter schools
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CAI movment declines; computer literacy movement begins
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Microcomputer applications spawn movements
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Howard Gardner and Multiple Intelligences Theories
Gardner believes there are 8 different innate intelligences covering various subject areas that a person can excel in depending on how they prefer to learn. Today, there is an emphasis on adjusting curriculum so students can learn in their preferred way. Technology and multimedia allow students to show knowledge in a variety of ways that can be tuned to their preferred intelligence. -
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Integrated learning systems (ILSs) emerge
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Using the Apple IIe in computer class
When the floppy disks were actually floppy. -
World Wide Web (WWW) is born
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Windows 95 Debuts
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International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) creates standards
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Internet use explodes
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Using high-speed T1 line in the dormroom for online class.
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International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
