1. Sociocultural
1.1. Major theorist: Lev Vygotsky
1.2. Major characteristics: emphasizes the importance of social and cultural context in learning
1.3. Role of memory: Sociocultural theory suggests that memory is socially constructed
1.3.1. How learning occurs: Sociocultural theory suggests that learning occurs through social interaction and collaboration. One key aspect of sociocultural theory that the authors emphasize is the idea of the "zone of proximal development" (ZPD), which refers to the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can do with assistance. ((Atweh, Goos, & Watson, 2002).
1.3.1.1. Types of learning: Social and cultural factors
2. Adult learning theory
2.1. Major theorist: Malcolm Knowles
2.2. Major characteristics: emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning and the role of prior experience in adult learning.
2.3. Role of memory: Adult learning theory emphasizes the importance of drawing on prior experience and personal memory
2.3.1. How learning occurs: Adult learning theory emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning and the role of prior experience.
2.3.1.1. Types of learning: Reflection and dialogue, whether with the self, another, or a group, enables learning to take place. However, learning to reflect—especially in a critical manner—is itself a developmental process that needs to be fostered in adult learning settings (Merriam, 2008).
3. Connectivisim
3.1. Major theorist: George Siemens
3.2. Major characteristics: focuses on the use of technology and the interconnectedness of knowledge
3.3. Role of memory: Connectivism suggests that memory is distributed across networks of people and technology.
3.3.1. How learning occurs: Connectivism suggests that learning occurs through the use of technology and making connections with others
3.3.1.1. Types of learning: Acquisition and decision-making, choosing what to learn and the meaning of incoming information is seen through the lens of a shifting reality (Siemens, 2005).