Bahaviorism, cognitivism and social constructionism learning theorys are all present through out our educational system. Prior to studying these learning theories, I was unaware of how theses theories could be used in an art classroom. I now see that theses theories have always be present in the art classroom and how I can continue to implement them in daily art activities.

Behaviorism focuses learning on repetition, memorization and application. The idea of drill and skill is present within art history lessons. By having students research and study on a specific artist,style or movement and then having themn creat an original work of art that is inspired by by their findings, the behaviorist theory is put in to action. They will not only gain the inital information you are putting forth but also learning to put forth that information into other aspects of their art work. By applying and reappling this information there is a better chance that the students will retain their new found knowledge on a long term basis.

Cognitivism presents the use of teacher and student aids as a form to repetition for the learner. Aides such as powerpoints and worksheets are often used in the art classroom not only during art history but also to introduce new lessons, processes, techniques and materials. These aides allow students to refer back to the new information as a form of reference material, as well as a form of repetition. When students have visual materials avaliable that can be used outside of the classroom, they will be more apt to look over the information at a time and in a place that is comfortable for them, which will increase their scores and retention of knowledge.

Social constructivism is a learning theory that I feel is obviously present within the art classroom. Not only does constructivism apply hands on technology in order to give students the opportunity to learn material at various paces and levels; constructivism also allows opportunities for students to gain social interaction skills, such as communication, comprimise and responsability. These social interaction skills can be used in other content areas as well as in life beyond school. Web quest are a great way to get students motivated in new material, give the continuous access to material for use as reference and allows them to work at a more individualized pace. They are also great for giving the students opportunities to work in groups on cooperative and collaborative assignments, which is the best way to introduce these social interaction skills.

These learning theories are present in all content areas weather we initially realize it or not. I feel that it is important to implement all three of the theories in some form or another in the everyday classroom.