Fitting the Pieces Together

In the Week 1 post on learning styles, the following statement was made...
"I do not think one style; over the others describe how I learn best. I learn using a compilation of techniques that is strongly influenced by the task." The post also stated..."The behaviorist-cognitive-constructivist continuum and adaptive learners described by Peggy Ertmer in the article Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism; Comparing Critical Features from an Instructional Design Perspective are the theories best aligned with my views of learning."

The reading resources over the past few weeks resulted in an expansion of ideology to acknowledge that visual-auditory-kinesthetics (VAK) play a significant role in engagement and the retention of information. Additionally the more senses used in learning the better. Learning using at least two senses (visual, auditory) work better than one sense. Using all three senses during learning is optimal.

Of the learning theories and styles, three points made by Howard Gardner in his paper, Multiple Intelligences After Twenty Years resonant with me. The points are summarized below.
COMMENT 1: As a species, human beings are better described as having a set of relatively autonomous intelligences.
COMMENT 2: MI theory should not in and of itself be an educational goal.
COMMENT 3: If one's educational goals encompass disciplinary understanding, then it is possible to mobilize several intelligences to help achieve lofty goals.

These points align with my assessment that learning is sometimes conventional and at other times unconventional because a hybrid of techniques ensure learning. Some techniques are designed to ensure success to keep the learner engaged, while others are designed as challenges that keep the learner motivated.

Technology plays an important role in learning. It provides a venue for the presentation of information and follow-up research. Review, practice and reinforcement of learned concepts are available anytime anywhere. Technology also serves as a storage mechanism. Lastly, it provides a vehicle for the creative expression of learned concepts.