Erno Lehtinen:
How to improve the impact of research on learning and instruction
Erno Lehtinen
Academy Professor
Centre for Learning Research
University of Turku
Abstract
Learning is a complex phenomenon. The concept of learning refers to many kinds
of processes which differ from each other in terms of time, situation, content
and agency. It is possible to analyse these processes by using different methods
and units of analysis: e.g. brain processes, modification of behaviour,
information processing, construction of concepts, and participation in
socio-cultural activities. Different theories of learning are based on
different epistemological and ontological approaches. However, in the
history of learning theories there are no strong paradigmatic changes.
New "more correct" theories have not replaced old "wrong" theories but new
questions have been asked and new theories and new units of analysis have
proved to be more relevant in answering these questions. A consequence of
this is that there is no "best" comprehensive theory of learning. If we try
to understand learning in real contexts, such as schools or work places, we
need to be aware of these multiple perspectives and to be able to understand
the relationships between different levels and units of analysis. In the
presentation I will elaborate this topic further and present some research
examples about the coordinated use of different perspectives.