Fitting the Pieces Together

Discovering how oneself learns is the first step to improving the learning process.  Now that I have a deeper understanding of the different learning theories and learning styles, my view on learning has definitely changed. Now able to understand my personal learning style has helped identify both my strengths and weaknesses.  As an adult learner, each individual is unique as it pertains to their preferred way of processing information.  By examining each individual theory, identification of how my brain prefers to process information is achievable which will result in efficient learning.

Although the cognitive learning theory, “Learners are active seekers and processors of information.  They select and attend to features of the environment, transform and rehearse information, relate new information to previously acquired knowledge, and organize knowledge to make it meaningful.   Learning occurs when input first enters a sensory register, then is processed in short-term memory, and then is transferred to long-term memory for storage and retrieval (Ormrod, J., Schunk, D., & Gredler, M. 2009)” would be the primary choice to explain my own personal learning preference, I still am not sure that one theory can account for all aspects of human learning.  Occasionally, one must adapt to certain situations where a combination of learning theories maybe appropriate.  For some learning, structure is important.  In the military, safety training is required and if individual steps are not taken in proper sequence, people can lose their lives. For other types of learning, structure is not needed.  There is also learning that requires building on prior knowledge.  In the military, as member’s progress through the ranks, they are given professional training that builds from when they first join, until retirement.  This training goes from learning about organizational structure and history to seeing where the individual is within the organization and his/her role.  Regardless of the learning, I believe that when it is self initiated, and the learner is allowed to solve problems and make mistakes, they learn best.  When that learning can be tied into their daily work, it makes it more purposeful.  Lastly, regardless of the learning style, all learning must have a purpose.  That goal, regardless of whatever it may be, is what motivates us to learn.


Technology plays an exceptionally significant role in improving the learning process.  Because of a hectic work schedule, utilizing a personal computer, I am able to continue my education with Walden University.  Tanberg video conference services enable office personnel to communicate between locations (The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and the U.S.) which better enables the information flow and keeps every agency abreast of current events/opportunities.  Smart boards allow instance corrections of outdated training material when conducting training sessions.  But not only does this technology facilitate learning, it also enhances social interaction actually making communication, learning enjoyable and less stressful.

Ormrod, J., Schunk, D., & Gredler, M. (2009). Learning theories and instruction (Laureate custom edition). New York: Pearson.