Understanding and Using Educational Theories

" I expect that this book will equip and inspire students to engage first-hand with the texts of these creative and influential educational writers."-David Aldridge, Programme Lead: Professional Education, Oxford Brookes University  

If you’re training to teach or studying education a clear understanding of major educational theories and the thinkers behind them is essential in order to appreciate how different practices impact on learning.

This textbook gives you a clear overview of the most influential twentieth and twenty-first century thinkers on education, including established names (including Vygotsky, Bruner, Dewey), more recent writers (such as Freire, Kolb, Claxton) and many other important theorists whose writings have helped shaped our views on teaching and learning.

Each chapter includes:

• Practical examples showing how theories can be used to inform classroom teaching


• Critiques of each theorist exploring opposing viewpoints and the strengths and weaknesses of different ideas


• Reflective tasks inviting you to apply what you’ve read to your own educational experiences

Did you know about the exciting new companion title?

Take students to the next level in learning theories - take a look at companion title Understanding and Using Challenging Educational Theories