Week 2-2 Personal Blog Reflection

1. 30-word micro session summary:

Cognitive information processing theory observes how the human learner is conceived to be a processor of information similar to the way a computer is and how the environment modifies behavior.

2. What is learning from cognitive information processing theory prospective? 

Learning from cognitive information processing theory is analogous to the way a computer stores it's information.  There are multiple processes the information must travel through until it is permanently stored in long term memory.  The essential processes of human learning include: sensory memory, working memory, and long-term memory.  I would define learning based on this perspective as an input & output process.  For example, for learning to occur information is input from the environment, from there it is processed and stored in the different stages of memory, and finally becomes an output in the form of a learned capability.  

3.  What are the big things that you learned about cognitive information processing theory? 

Something new as well as important that I learned about cognitive information processing theory was Gagne's Nine Events of Instruction found in the reading.  The diagram included below helped me break down and understand cognitive information processing teaching techniques in the classroom in addition to their associated internal processes and actions.  As a result, this helped me write a well informed discussion story and clearly understand the applications of CIP. 

4. Do you think cognitive information processing demonstrates your own beliefs in how human learning occurs?

I think cognitive information processing is an effective learning style because it requires repetition and environmental stimulus to have learning occur.  Thus, I believe it encourages creative and active learning in the classroom which helps the human learner become more successful at retaining information rather than just passively reading a textbook.  

5. Do you have any questions or concerns about course learning?

How can I improve at giving peer feedback/comments? 

6. Week 2-2 Activity Completion Check

	Modules	Topics  & Activity	Check ✓ if Completed
Week 2	Week 2-1 *Due by July 24 at 10:59 am	1) Week 2-1 Reading Quiz	✓
		2) Week 2-1 Discussion Forum: one initial response & two peer feedback replies	✓
		3) Week 2-1 Personal Blog Reflection	✓
	Week 2-2 *Due by July 24 at 10:59 am	1) Week 2-2 Reading Quiz	✓
		2) Week 2-2 Discussion Forum: One initial response & two peer feedback replies	✓
		3) Week 2-2 Personal Blog Reflection	✓

7. Social Blog Activity 

Elizabeth O'Brien's Blog: 

Elizabeth, 

I enjoyed reading about your take on Bandura's social cognitive theory.  I agree  that most learning is achieved through observation and modeling.  I also agree with you that the internal learning process cannot always be observed, your idea coincides with cognitive information processing theory perfectly.  Way to think ahead!  

 I do think, however, learning through vicarious experiences can go either way.  Although, traditionally vicarious learning tends to enhance students self-efficacy.  I do consider the fact that these vicarious learning experiences may not work for an individual with low self-efficacy.  Learning that other students did well in a class or on a test may create anxiety for another student who has low competence in their abilities because they are already doubtful of their capability to succeed at a task in comparison to others.  

Melissa Parkes's Blog: 

Hi Melissa! 

I love all of your diagrams and pictures for your blog, it is a great visual guide while I am reading!  I enjoyed reading about your learning about self-efficacy and how it is different from self-esteem.  I too was first confused when compared the two, but came to the realization that they are two separate entities because competence in ones abilities and self-worth are not the same!  I like how you would incorporate social cognitive theory in your teaching because you recognize the importance of modeling behavior in the classroom from the teacher as well as from the students.  Also, I enjoy how you use many examples from the readings and videos to support your ideas. I would like to see you incorporate personal experiences as well.  Thank you for sharing your ideas!