DSRS1216 Introduction to Principles of Learning

2017

4.5

1 x 2-hour lecture weekly
1 x 50-minute tutorial weekly
1 x 8-hour independent study weekly
1 x 1-hour on-line exercises weekly

Assignments; quiz; on-line exercises

This topic introduces students to important areas of human learning that will provide the underpinnings of programmatic approaches to changing behaviour. Important areas covered include sensory perception, memory, an introduction to theories of reinforcement and motivation, behavioural, cognitive-behavioural, and cognitive influences on both the learning process and subsequent behaviour change, and how assessment is used to develop goals and promote positive behaviour change. The content is set within the context of working with people with disabilities and learning is related to important philosophies within the disability field.

The aim of this topic is to provide students with the opportunity to learn about:

• Fundamental principles of behaviour and why humans may continue to behave in particular ways

• Specific strategies for applying the principles of human behaviour to instruction

• An introduction to assessment techniques, the writing of clear behavioural objectives and designing task analyses that underpin instruction.

On completion of this topic students should be able to:

1. Discuss the current philosophies in the field of disability and how they impact on the development of instructional programs

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the effects of sensory perception and memory on human behaviour

3. Evaluate the behavioural, cognitive-behavioural, and cognitive influences on both the learning process and subsequent behaviour change

4. Discuss the main methods of assessing behaviour and demonstrate a clear understanding of informal, structured, and standardised assessment.