Learning Theories Flashcards

A student finds the formula for the sum of the first n odd numbers by testing small cases and spotting the pattern. Which learning theory does this best show?

Answer: Constructivism

Constructivism holds that learners actively build knowledge through exploration and making sense of things.

A student uses the pigeonhole principle learned from a sock-drawer problem to solve an unfamiliar geometry problem on the AMC 12. What type of transfer is this?

Answer: Far transfer

Far transfer is applying knowledge to a context that is quite different from the one where it was learned.

Experienced contestants instantly recognize 5-12-13 as a Pythagorean triple instead of computing it. Which cognitive concept explains this?

Answer: Chunking

Chunking groups pieces of information into meaningful units, getting around working memory limits (Miller's 7±2).

Bjork argues that some practice conditions slow progress at first but improve long-term learning. What are these called?

Answer: Desirable difficulties

Desirable difficulties such as spacing, interleaving, and retrieval make practice harder but retention stronger.

According to Deci and Ryan's self-determination theory, which three needs support intrinsic motivation to study math contests?

Answer: Autonomy, competence, relatedness

Self-determination theory names autonomy, competence, and relatedness as basic psychological needs.

A student writes an original AMC-style problem with five plausible answer choices. At which level of revised Bloom's taxonomy is the student working?

Answer: Create

Producing an original work is the 'Create' level, the highest in revised Bloom's taxonomy.

The Yerkes-Dodson law suggests which arousal level is best for a complex, timed task like the 75-minute AMC 12?

Answer: Moderate arousal

Yerkes-Dodson describes an inverted-U, where moderate arousal gives the best performance on complex tasks.