Learning is a fundamental process in human development, and there are various models that explain how we acquire knowledge and skills. In this article we will explore the 5 most important learning models and analyze their associated brain processes.
Learning Models
1. Behavioral Model
The Behavioral Model, proposed by BF Skinner, focuses on operant conditioning as the primary learning mechanism. According to this approach, environmental stimuli provoke responses in individuals, and these responses are reinforced or punished, which affects the probability of their repetition in the future.
Brain Processes:
In the behaviorist model, positive reinforcement activates the reward system in the brain, releasing dopamine and strengthening synaptic connections associated with the learned behavior. On the other hand, punishment activates areas related to fear and aversion, which can inhibit the repetition of the behavior.
2. Cognitive Model
The Cognitive Model, developed by Jean Piaget, focuses on the way people process information internally to construct their understanding of the world. According to Piaget, learning occurs through assimilation and accommodation, where individuals incorporate new information into their preexisting mental schemas or adjust these schemas to adapt to the new information.
Brain Processes:
In the cognitive model, learning involves the activation of various areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for planning and reasoning, and the hippocampus, related to the formation and storage of memory. short term.
3. Humanistic Model
The Humanistic Model, promoted by Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, emphasizes self-realization and personal growth as learning objectives. According to this approach, people have an innate tendency toward realizing their potential and developing their positive self-concept, and learning is facilitated in an environment that promotes unconditional acceptance and empathy.
Brain Processes :
In the humanistic model, learning is related to the activation of brain areas associated with intrinsic motivation, such as the reward system and the anterior cingulate cortex, which is involved in emotional self-regulation and perception. of internal reward.
4. Constructivist Model
The Constructivist Model, based on the theories of Lev Vygotsky and Jerome Bruner, postulates that learning is an active process of constructing meaning through social interaction and reflection on experiences. According to this approach, individuals build their knowledge through collaboration with others and problem solving.
Brain Processes:
In the constructivist model, learning involves the activation of neural networks related to social cognition, such as the superior temporal sulcus, which is activated during the interpretation of the intentions and emotions of others, and the theory of mind circuit, which allows understanding the point of view of others.
5. Connectivist Model
The Connectivist Model, proposed by George Siemens, is based on the idea that learning is a process of connecting and networking between people, concepts and digital resources in networked environments. According to this approach, the ability to access up-to-date information and collaborate in learning communities is essential in the digital age.
Brain Processes:
In the connectivist model, learning is associated with neuronal plasticity, which allows the brain to adapt to new synaptic connections in response to exposure to diverse information and interaction with different learning contexts.
In conclusion, different learning models offer varied perspectives about how we acquire knowledge and skills, and the associated brain processes reflect the complexity and diversity of the mechanisms involved in human learning.