Sunday, May 15, 2011

Evaluation of Two Educational Psychology Resources


The field of educational psychology is very complex and that is why it is very important for instructional designers to stay current with the latest research. One way to do this is to read peer-reviewed journals. The fact that these journals are peer-reviewed may be more beneficial because peers have the ability to question certain research methods with a certain degree of validity because they may have similar credentials.

  
1. International Journal of Cognitive Informatics and Natural Intelligence

 This particular journal is a combination of social engineering and psychology. This creates a new topic known as cognitive informatics. Therefore, this journal may not only be useful for just psychologists but also other professionals like sociologists and other educational professionals. An example of an article that you will find here is called, "The Cognitive Process of Comprehension." In this article, the authors talk about the abstract concept of comprehension. They attempt to explain the concept of human comprehension while taking into account factors such as individuality and environmental stimuli. Instructional designers and other educators would probably benefit the most from this article because educators continue to figure out ways to make learning more attainable and those variables that create obstacles are individuality and the learning environment.

Overall, the major focus of this article attempts to attach mathematical models to the theories that are already accepted by educators under the heading of comprehension as it relates to information processing theory.

 2.  Mind, Brain, and Education

 This resource focuses on learning as it relates to the complexities of the brain. This periodical is geared towards educators and those learning about brain processes and learning. The language used is less scientific and more conversational. The fact that the language is less scientific can strengthen comprehension across more readers. One particular article of interest is called "Understanding the Role of Neuroscience in Brain Based Products: A guide for educators and consumers." This article attempts to explain the terminology used across psychology and education. As mentioned earlier, the language is simplified. In this instance, having simplified language appeals to consumers because it may enhance comprehension because consumers may not be an educational professional.

In addition to explaining how the brain relates to learning, terminology can get mixed up and confused. This article tries to clarify that. Instructional designers would benefit from this, especially those who are just beginning in the field of instructional design. Instructional designers would benefit best from this because instructional designers can use this clarified terminology in their own practice and in communications with peers. Simplified terminology in conjunction with current research is a combination that can make the instructional designers more competitive with their peers and other professionals.


References




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