Reading from a psychology textbook, especially from the 1960's and 1970's learning will be defined as a change in behavior. Learning is approached as an outcome, the end product of some process. This approach has the virtue of highlighting a crucial aspect of learning and that is change (Smith, 1999). The definition of learning that I find relevant is the processing of information we encounter, which leads to changes or an increase in out knowledge and abilities (DiPaolo, n.d.). Theories provide a general explanation for observations made over time. They try to explain and predict behavior. When it comes to the process of learning, there are three main theories, Behaviorism, Cognitivism and Constructivism.
             Behaviorism is based on observable external changes in behavior. It focuses on a new behavioral pattern being repeated until it becomes automatic. Cognitivism is based on the thought process behind the behavior. Changes in behavior are observed and used as indicators as to what is happening inside the learners' mind. Constructivism is based on the idea that we all construct our own perspective of the world, through individual experiences and schema. Constructivism focuses on preparing the learner to problem solve in different situations (Mergel, 1998).
             The theory of behaviorism concentrates on the study of overt behaviors that can be observed and measured. It views the mind as a "black box" in the sense that response to stimulus can be observed quantitatively, ignoring the possibility of thought processes occurring in the mind (Mergel, 1998). Behaviorists propose that if no observable change happens, then no learning has happened. The most central of these concepts are classical conditioning and operant conditioning (University of Phoenix, 2000).
             Classical conditioning involves the acquisition of new signals for existing responses. If a person touches a baby on the cheek, he or she wi...