EDUC 690: Cognitive Instruction: An Introduction

Cross-Listed: EDSP 690

Credit Hours: (3)

A study of learning and instructional strategies based upon current cognitive theories; course competency based; students demonstrate the technical skills necessary to develop the learning capabilities of their clients

Detailed Description and Course Syllabus

I. Overview of Learning Theories: Assumptions and Implications for Instruction
        A. Classical Conditioning
        B. Operant Conditioning
        C. Association Learning Theory
        D. Social Learning
        E. Information – Processing Theory
II. Cognitive Approaches to Learning
        A. Nature of the brain
                1.Structure
                2.Function
                3.Storage and retrieval of information
        B. Knowledge System (types of Knowledge)
        C. Factors Affecting Learning
                1.Schema
                2.Practice/rehearsal/automaticity
                3.Elaboration
                4.Organization
                5.Transfer
                6.Learner:
                        i.Affective states
                        ii.Prior knowledge
                        iii.Misconceptions
                        iv.Strategy use
        D. Examples of Cognitive Theories of Instruction
III. Cognitive Theory in the Classroom
        A. Overview of Thinking processes
                1.Thinking as recursive process
                2.Cognition and metacognition
                3.Types of thinking processes:
                            i.Conceptual thinking
                            ii.Classification
                            iii. Inference
                            iv.Analysis
                            v.Creativity
                            vi.Problem-solving
                            vii.Critical thinking                
                4. Examples of thinking/learning strategies:
                            i.Encoding strategies
                            ii.Constructive/generative strategies
                            iii.Monitoring strategies
        B. Cognitive Instruction Strategies/Models
                1. Direct instruction models (Hunter, Rosenshine, etc.)
                2. Strategic teaching (Beau Fly Jones)
                3. Cognitive teaching (Joan Fulton)
                            i.Developmental process of instruction
                            ii.Teaching strategies
                                    •concept construction
                                    •concept dimensions strategy
                            iii.overcoming deficiencies of prior knowledge
                            iv.teaching for mastery
                            v.assessment

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Assessment Measures

Other Course Information

Approval and Revision Dates
January 1999 Course number change from 590 to 690