Learning, Knowledge, and Human Development from Coursera

This course sets out to provide an understanding of theories of learning and development and how these theories relate to educational technology. It has two components. The first is theoretical, in which we attempt to develop an overall frame of reference, locating approaches to the psychology of learning in terms of large paradigm shifts, from ‘behaviorism’ to ‘brain developmentalism’ to ‘social cognitivism’. The second component is practical, in which we will use these theoretical concepts to ‘parse’ a technology-mediated learning environment for its underlying presuppositions.

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Recommended Background

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This course is designed for people interested in the future of education and the "learning society," including people who may wish to join education as a profession, practicing teachers interested in exploring future directions for a vocation that is currently undergoing transformation, and community and workplace leaders who regard their mission to be in part "educative."

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Related Resources

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Online resources are available here:

https://newlearningonline.com

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Join our Online Communities!

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CGScholar (Create an account and join the New Learning community)

https://cgscholar.com/community/community_profiles/new-learning/community_updates

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/newlearningonline

Twitter

https://twitter.com/neolearning

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Take this Course for Credit at the University of Illinois

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This course has the same content and anticipates the same level of contribution by students in the Assessment for Learning course offered to graduate certificate, masters, and doctoral level students in the Learning Design and Leadership Program in the College of Education at the University of Illinois.

Of course, in the nature of MOOCs many people will just want to view the videos and casually join some of the discussions. Some people say that these limited kinds of participation offer evidence that MOOCs suffer from low retention rates. Far from it – we say that any level of engagement is good engagement.

On the other hand, if you would like to take this course for credit at the University of Illinois, you will find more information about our program here:

https://ldlprogram.web.illinois.edu/overview/

And you can apply here:

https://education.illinois.edu/epol/programs-degrees/ldl

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The Learning Design and Leadership Series of MOOCs

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This course is one of a series of eight MOOCs created by Bill Cope and Mary Kalantzis for the Learning Design and Leadership program at the University of Illinois. If you find this MOOC helpful, please join us in others!

e-Learning Ecologies: Innovative Approaches to Teaching and Learning for the Digital Age

https://www.coursera.org/learn/elearning

New Learning: Principles and Patterns of Pedagogy

https://www.coursera.org/learn/newlearning

Assessment for Learning

https://www.coursera.org/learn/assessmentforlearning

Learning, Knowledge, and Human Development

https://www.coursera.org/learn/learning-knowledge-human-development

Ubiquitous Learning and Instructional Technologies

https://www.coursera.org/learn/ubiquitouslearning

Negotiating Learner Differences: Towards Productive Diversity in Learning

https://www.coursera.org/learn/learnerdifferences

Literacy Teaching and Learning: Aims, Approaches and Pedagogies

https://www.coursera.org/learn/literacy-teaching-learning

Multimodal Literacies: Communication and Learning in the Era of Digital Media

https://www.coursera.org/learn/multimodal-literacies

What's inside

Syllabus

COURSE ORIENTATION + Foundations of Educational Psychology

This course sets out to provide an introduction to educational psychology. It includes a variety of voices and perspectives from the College of Education at the University of Illinois. Mary Kalantzis and Bill Cope offer a historical and conceptual overview of the field, classified broadly under the terms "behaviorism," "brain developmentalism," and "social cognitivism." This is followed by four quite different practical examples of educational psychology at work. Dorothy Espelage discusses her work on the social and emotional conditions of learning in her research into bullying at school. Denice Hood gives an example of the application of psychology to educational counseling. George Reese speaks about "productive struggle" in learning. And finally, Joe Robinson-Cimpian discusses the application of quantitative psychology to analyze test results for the purposes of school and curricular placement.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Demystifies brain developmentalism and social cognitivism theories with practical applications

Covers key theories in educational psychology, addressing foundational topics

Instructors have a well-established reputation in the field of educational psychology

Reveals different domains of educational psychology through examples by experts

Introduces foundational theories and concepts in educational psychology

Explores various learning theories and their impact on educational practices

Reviews summary

Theoretical focus on learning and development

According to learners, this course delves into theories of learning and human development (behaviorism, brain developmentalism, social cognitivism). However, many found it disappointing and a waste. Critiques focus on dry, academic content lacking practical application. Lectures are described as monotonous, read from scripts, hindering engagement. Assignments were seen as unhelpful or vague. Some felt the course hasn't been updated. While one learner found a coherent structure, clear explanations, and a solid foundation with well-chosen practical examples, recent feedback is largely negative, suggesting it suits only those with a strong academic focus on theory.

One view finds it a strong academic base.

"This course is excellent! The structure is coherent, and the instructors explain the concepts clearly."

"The practical examples are well-chosen and help illustrate the theoretical concepts."

"Overall, it provides a solid foundation for everyone interested in education."

May not reflect modern context.

"The claim this course prepares you for graduate study is questionable. It feels like it hasn't been updated in years..."

"The course feels outdated and doesn't seem to incorporate current thinking or technology..."

Tasks are vague or disconnected.

"The assignments are not helpful at all in reinforcing the concepts taught in the lectures."

"...assignments are vaguely defined and require extensive searching just to figure out what is expected."

"assignments are disconnected from the core concepts discussed."

Lectures are dull and unengaging.

"The lectures are monotonous, clearly read from scripts, which makes it hard to stay engaged."

"The content is incredibly boring and delivered in a dull, monotonous way with zero passion or engagement."

"Lectures are quite academic and lack real-world relevance..."

Course prioritizes theory over application.

"The content is extremely dry and academic, focused on abstract theories without practical application."

"While the theoretical framework presented is interesting... the practical application part is very weak."

"If you're looking for practical knowledge or anything engaging, look elsewhere."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learning, Knowledge, and Human Development with these activities:

Review educational psychology

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Enhance your understanding of the foundational concepts in educational psychology to strengthen your grasp of the course material.

Browse courses on Educational Psychology

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Revisit introductory textbooks on educational psychology
Review lecture notes or online resources on educational psychology
Summarize key theories and concepts in educational psychology

Complete online quizzes on educational psychology concepts

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Reinforce your understanding of key concepts by regularly completing online quizzes.

Browse courses on Educational Psychology

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Identify online quizzes or practice exercises related to educational psychology
Take the quizzes to test your knowledge and identify areas for improvement
Review incorrect answers and research the correct information to strengthen your understanding

Explore online tutorials on specific educational psychology topics

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Expand your knowledge and understanding of specific educational psychology topics through guided tutorials.

Browse courses on Educational Psychology

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Identify reputable online tutorials or video lectures on topics of interest
Watch or participate in the tutorials, taking notes and engaging with the material
Apply the knowledge gained from the tutorials to your understanding of the course material

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Read 'Educational Psychology: Theory and Practice' by Anita Woolfolk Hoy

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Deepen your understanding of educational psychology through a comprehensive review of this foundational text, exploring theories, research, and practical applications.

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Read designated chapters on educational psychology theories and practices
Take notes on key concepts, research findings, and practical implications
Discuss the book's insights with peers or a mentor

Engage in peer-led discussion groups

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Collaborate with peers to discuss course concepts, share insights, and support each other's learning.

Browse courses on Educational Psychology

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Form or join a peer-led discussion group
Choose topics for discussion related to the course material
Engage in active listening, questioning, and sharing of perspectives

Develop a presentation on a specific learning theory

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Solidify your understanding of a particular learning theory by creating a presentation that explains its principles, applications, and implications for educational practice.

Browse courses on Learning Theories

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Choose a specific learning theory to focus on
Research the theory's key concepts, principles, and supporting evidence
Design a presentation that clearly explains the theory and its implications
Practice delivering the presentation to enhance your understanding and communication skills

Volunteer in an educational setting

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Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge by volunteering in an educational setting.

Browse courses on Educational Psychology

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Identify volunteer opportunities in schools, community centers, or other educational organizations
Contribute your skills and support to educational initiatives
Reflect on your experiences and connect them to the theories and concepts learned in the course

Contribute to open-source educational resources on educational psychology

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Enhance your understanding and contribute to the field by participating in open-source educational projects.

Browse courses on Educational Psychology

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Identify open-source educational repositories or initiatives related to educational psychology
Contribute to existing projects by providing translations, creating content, or improving documentation
Collaborate with others to expand and improve educational resources

Career center

Learners who complete Learning, Knowledge, and Human Development will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Learning Scientist

Learning scientists study the processes and theories of human learning and development. They use this knowledge to develop new teaching and learning methods, and to improve the quality of education. A background in educational psychology is essential for learning scientists, as it provides a strong foundation in the field. This course can be especially helpful in broadening your understanding of the latest research on learning and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Learning Scientist

Educational Psychologist

Educational psychologists apply the principles and scientific findings of psychology to the field of education. This includes studying how students learn and develop and researching methods for improving teaching methods. Courses like this one and a background in educational psychology are essential for developing successful strategies for teaching and understanding the factors that affect learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Psychologist

Educational Researcher

Educational researchers conduct research on a wide range of topics related to education. They use their findings to inform educational policy and practice. A background in educational psychology is essential for educational researchers, as it provides a strong foundation in the field. This course may be useful in broadening your understanding of the latest research on learning and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Researcher

Curriculum Developer

Curriculum developers design and develop educational programs and materials. They work with teachers and other educators to ensure that students are receiving a quality education. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for curriculum developers, as it offers vital knowledge about the processes and theories of human learning and development. This course can help curriculum developers better understand the needs of learners and develop more effective learning experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer

School Counselor

School counselors offer support and guidance to students in academic, personal, and social areas. They help students identify their strengths and weaknesses, develop coping mechanisms, and make decisions. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for school counselors, and a course like this one can be especially helpful in providing a solid foundation for understanding the needs of students.

See salaries and explore the career path for School Counselor

Education Administrator

Education administrators provide leadership and management for schools and other educational institutions. They develop and implement educational programs, manage staff and resources, and ensure that students are receiving a quality education. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for education administrators, as it offers vital knowledge about the processes and theories of human development. This knowledge is essential for developing successful educational programs and supporting student learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Education Administrator

Instructional Technology Specialist

Instructional technology specialists use their knowledge of technology and education to develop and implement innovative learning solutions. They work with teachers and other educators to integrate technology into the curriculum and to improve student learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Technology Specialist

Community Organizer

Community organizers work with communities to identify and address their needs. They develop and implement programs, advocate for change, and build coalitions. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for community organizers, as it offers insights into how people learn and develop. This understanding can be applied to the development and implementation of effective programs and to building strong relationships with community members.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer

Human Resources Manager

Human resources managers oversee the human resources department of an organization. They are responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and developing employees. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for human resources managers, as it offers insights into how people learn and develop. This understanding can be applied to the development and implementation of effective training and development programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research, analyze, and develop policies for governments and other organizations. They use their knowledge of social, economic, and political issues to inform policy decisions. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for policy analysts, as it offers insights into how people learn and develop. This understanding can be applied to the development of policies that support education and lifelong learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Nonprofit Administrator

Nonprofit administrators manage the day-to-day operations of nonprofit organizations. They work with staff and volunteers to develop and implement programs, manage finances, and ensure that the organization is meeting its mission. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for nonprofit administrators, as it offers vital knowledge about the processes and theories of human learning and development. This course may be useful in broadening your understanding of how people learn and develop, which can be applied to the development and implementation of effective programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Administrator

Social Worker

Social workers help people to overcome challenges and improve their lives. They work with individuals, families, and communities to provide support and resources. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for social workers, as it offers insights into how people learn and develop. This understanding can be applied to the development and implementation of effective programs and to building strong relationships with clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Consultant

Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for consultants, as it offers insights into how people learn and develop. This understanding can be applied to the development and implementation of effective consulting services.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Teacher

Teachers provide instruction and support to students in a variety of settings. They develop and implement lesson plans, assess student learning, and provide feedback. A background in educational psychology can be beneficial for teachers, as it offers vital knowledge about the processes and theories of human learning and development. This course may be useful in broadening your understanding of how students learn and develop and how to create effective learning environments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Instructional Designer

Instructional designers conceive, produce, and carry out all the instructional facets of projects, from the need assessment, through the implementation, to the evaluation and refinement. A background in educational psychology is beneficial to instructional designers, as it offers vital knowledge about the processes and theories of human learning and development. This understanding is essential for developing successful strategies for teaching and learning, as well as methods to assess the efficacy of those tactics. This course may be useful in broadening your base of knowledge and preparing you to work as an instructional designer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer