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Unit 3: Cognitivism

This unit explores the next major learning theory, Cognitivism. How does it differ from Behaviorism? Who were the key contributors from the field of psychology? What strategies can Instruction (Learning) Designers use to better connect with learners? Click the video below to view; closed captioning is available. 

Sample Material

Below is a sample of the material used by the Marine Corps for its Operational Stress Control and Readiness (OSCAR) team training. The course is to develop Marines of all ages, ranks, and experience levels to be able to manage their own stress, while being able to provide peer support for their fellow Marines at different stress zones (from minor daily stressors to major stress illness. The instruction begins with basic concepts, then expounds on them in later modules, increasing complexity. It includes breaks between modules, has tie-ins to previous modules for active retrieval, and provides each learner with an opportunity to observe, practice, and demonstrate what they've learned. Some sections address common myths and give learners opportunities to connect and share their experiences with others while connecting previously held mental models to the new material. Throughout the course, activities are used to keep learners engaged, along with opportunities for self-reflection. The only concern is that the audience constrains personal stories and that the course incorporates all ranks, which can be intimidating for younger learners and make it challenging to engage and to fully feel comfortable expressing their thoughts. Not shown, but an excellent example of a facilitator's guide, this lesson plan outlines the facilitator's role by providing three types of instruction: "Do" specifies actions to take during the instruction, such as using hand signals to highlight a point. "Say" provides the facilitator with a specific script to ensure consistent messaging among facilitators. "Cover" tells the facilitator the main points to address, but gives them the latitude to express them in their own words while meeting the lesson's intent and staying on message. 
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
I used Grammarly as a thought partner to assist with organization, spellchecking, and editing for clarity. All final ideas, content, and analysis are my own.  I used Gemini to generate graphics throughout my website. 

 Click Here for References and Resources

​​​​​Bates, T. (2022). Teaching in a Digital Age: Guidelines for designing teaching and learning (3rd ed.) Tony Bates Associates Ltd. https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/teachinginadigitalagev3m

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Bruner, J.S., & Postman, L. (1949). On the Perceptions of Incongruity: A Paradigm. Journal of Personality, 18, 206-223

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Chimir, I. A., Abu-Dawwas, W. A., & Horney, M. A. (2005). Neisser’s Cycle of Perception: Formal Representation and Practical Implementation. Journal of Computer Science, 0(2), 106–111. 

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​Google. (2025). Gemini. https://gemini.google.com/app

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Instructional Design Tips. (2022, December 6). Instructional Design Basics: Cogntiive Load [Video]. YouTube.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jvnKTtmqF0

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Kimmons, R. (2022). Education Research Across Multiple Paradigms. https://doi.org/10.59668/133

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Manpower & Reserve Affairs. (2021). Operations stress control and readiness team training. [PowerPoint slides]. 

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McLeod, S. (2024, January 24). Piaget's Theory and Stages of Cognitive Development. SimplyPsychology.  https://www.simplypsychology.org/piaget.html

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​Natnal seyum. (2024, September 12). Ulric Neisser’s Cognitive Psychology: Its Influence and Importance. Medium. https://medium.com/@nathanielpresents/ulric-neissers-cognitive-psychology-its-influence-and-importance-09ceb07f5d99

 

PHILO-notes. (2021, November 1). What is Cognitivism? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFZs7I4FxP4\

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Sprouts. (2018, August 1). Piaget's Theory of Cognitive Development. [Video]. YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhcgYgx7aAA

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