Learning Theory

The foundational frameworks that shape effective learning design. Classical and modern theories, decoded for L&D practitioners.

44 articles

Learning Myths Hero image
Learning Theory •

15 Learning Myths Busted: How To Work Smarter, Not Harder

Unlearn limiting beliefs! Debunk the top 15 learning myths holding you back & unlock your full potential with evidence-based strategies.

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The Truth About Learning Styles Hero
Learning Theory •

The Truth About Learning Styles: A Deep Dive Into Learner...

What's the real deal with learning styles? This article post goes beyond the surface level to explore the research, benefits...

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What is the 70:20:10 Model?
Learning Theory •

The 70:20:10 Model: What the Evidence Actually Says

70:20:10 shapes L&D budgets everywhere, yet no study produced the ratio. Here's where the numbers came from, what happened when...

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Learning Theory •

Zone of Proximal Development and Scaffolding: What the Evidence Says

The Zone of Proximal Development explained, with the scaffolding evidence that supports it and the parts of the theory Vygotsky...

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Interleaving Mixed Practice Hero
Learning Theory •

Interleaving: How Mixed Practice Can Boost Your Learning

Interleaving, or mixed practice, feels harder than studying one topic at a time, but the science shows it builds stronger,...

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Learning Theory •

What Is a Growth Mindset? Dweck’s Theory, Research & How...

What is a growth mindset? Discover Carol Dweck's theory, what the latest research says (including the critics), and how to...

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Cognitive Load Theory Hero
Learning Theory •

What Is Cognitive Load Theory? Definition, Types & Examples

What is cognitive load theory? Discover Sweller's framework, the 3 types of cognitive load, and practical techniques to reduce mental...

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Learning Theory •

What is Bloom’s Taxonomy? The 6 Levels, Verbs, and How...

Bloom's Taxonomy classifies learning into six cognitive levels, from remembering to creating. Learn what each level means, the verbs that...

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2 Sigma Problem Hero
Learning Theory •

The 2 Sigma Problem: Why One-to-One Tutoring Outperforms Everything

Bloom’s 2 Sigma Problem showed that tutored students outperform 98% of conventionally taught learners. Learn what this finding means and...

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Learning Theory •

Edgar Dale’s Cone of Experience: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Edgar Dale's Cone of Experience? Explore the original 11 levels, debunk the Learning Pyramid myth, and learn how...

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Learning Theory •

Seductive Details: The Hidden Cost of Making Training ‘More Engaging’

Seductive details are interesting but irrelevant additions to training content that harm recall. Learn what they are and why they...

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Desirable Difficulties Hero
Learning Theory •

Desirable Difficulties: Why Making Learning Harder Makes It Stick

Desirable difficulties are learning strategies that feel harder but produce stronger retention. Discover what they are and why they work.

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