Stop using these outdated learning theories!

I’ll probably ruffle some feathers here, but these theories have been shown to be ineffective. Yet, they are still used in most teacher-training programs.

1. Learning Styles Theory

Research has consistently failed to find evidence that matching teaching methods to learning styles improves learning outcomes. Instead, effective teaching strategies often depend more on the content being taught than on individual preferences. This is so ingrained in our day-to-day experience that AI still defaults to this unproven idea.

2. Behaviorism as a Sole Framework

Behaviorist principles are good for habit formation, but they are grossly insufficient for explaining complex learning processes like critical thinking or creativity. It will help keep your kid from touching a hot stove, though!

3. Piaget’s Fixed Developmental Stages

This is soooooo last century! Modern research suggests that cognitive development is more fluid and influenced by cultural, social, and environmental factors, rather than strictly adhering to universal stages. I still had to memorize this in my grad program!

4. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Yes, this will ruffle some feathers, but the theory is flawed. Modern research indicates that needs such as safety, belonging, and self-actualization can be pursued simultaneously rather than sequentially. This is great news for those who teach in Title 1 schools. It’s why some schools can thrive while others stagnate.

5. Constructivism Misapplications

Not all of this has been disproven, but there are two areas that need to go ASAP:

• Pure discovery learning (where learners explore with minimal guidance) has been shown to be less effective than guided discovery or structured approaches.
• Overemphasis on student-centered methods without sufficient scaffolding can lead to confusion or gaps in foundational knowledge.

Any experienced teacher knows this intuitively, yet the “Big PD Guys” keep pushing failed applications of this theory. Scaffolding wins the day!

6. “Right-Brain vs. Left-Brain” Learning

Yeah, this just isn’t a thing. Sorry! Totally debunked. Both hemispheres work together in most cognitive tasks.

Let’s Stop Using 19th-Century Learning Theories

The new ones from this century are (for the most part) far more effective.

Bonus: 7. Adult Learning Theory

Research has shown that strategies like active engagement, feedback, and repetition are effective across all age groups.

OK, it isn’t totally bunk, but the following are also true:

• Kids are self-directed learners.
• Kids bring prior experience and knowledge to the learning process.
• Kids are motivated by practical, problem-solving goals.
• Kids need relevance to their personal life or interest.
• Kids exhibit goal-oriented behavior.
• Kids find learning is driven by intrinsic motivation.

Ah, it feels good to get that off my chest. You can all now battle me in the comments 🥷