Learning Theory Comparison Chart
Complete the following theory comparison chart based on the charts in Chapter 4 of Streamlined ID and the article: Ertmer, P.A., & Newby, T.J.
(1993). Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism: Comparing critical features from an instructional design perspective. Performance Improvement
Quarterly, 6(4), 50–72. After filling in the information for the three theory columns, complete the similarities and differences column to identify
how the different theories are alike and different. Expand the chart as necessary.
Point of
Comparison/Contrast
Behaviorism
Cognitivism
Constructivism
Similarities &
Differences Between
Theories
Learning is ...
Basic Assumptions &
Principles
 Both Behaviorism &
Cognitivism assume an
objective truth.

Factors That
Influence Learning
Role of Memory
How Transfer Occurs
Best Support for
Which Types of
Learning?
Best Instructional
Structure to
Facilitate Learning
© Taylor & Francis 2014
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