Learning Theories Simplified 2e By Bob Bates

Are you struggling to get your head around John Dewey’s educational pragmatism? What exactly is Jean Piaget saying about cognitive development? Maybe you’re running out of time and patience making sense of Carol Dweck’s mindsets? Have you reached breaking point reading Daniel T. Willingham on educational neuroscience?

Written for busy teachers, trainers, managers and students, this 'dip-in, dip-out' guide makes theories of learning accessible and practical. It explores 130 classic and contemporary learning theorists in an easy-to-use, bite-sized format with clear relevant illustrations on how each theory will benefit teaching and learning.

Each model or theory is explained in less than 350 words, followed by a 'how to use it' section.

What's new to this edition:

A new early childhood theorists section
A new communication theories section
Additional ‘on trend’ theorists throughout
New ‘critical view’ features added to each entry.


Part 1: Classical Learning Theories
Section 1.1: Educational Philosophy Section 1.2: Behaviourism Section 1.3: Cognitivism Section 1.4: Humanism Section 1.5: Neurolism

Part 2: Contemporary Thinking on Teaching and Learning
Section 2.1: Professionalism Section 2.2: Learning Styles Section 2.3: Motivation Section 2.4: Behaviour Management Section 2.5: Coaching and Mentoring Section 2.6: Teamworking

Part 3: An Introduction to Early Childhood and Developmental Strategies
Section 3.1: Children and Society Section 3.2: Emotional Growth Section 3.3: Classroom Strategies Section 3.4: Working with Children with Additional Needs Section 3.5: Different School Approaches

Part 4: Planning, Delivering and Assessing Learning
Section 4.1: Curriculum Planning Section 4.2: Lesson Planning Section 4.3: Delivering Learning Section 4.4: Assessment and Feedback Section 4.5: Evaluating Teaching and Learning