While there are many theories of how people learn, a subset of those theories is relevant to training and development in organizations. Behaviorism focuses on the observable behavior as evidence of learning. Cognitivism posits the learner should be viewed as an information processor, like a computer. Constructivism argues learning is an active, constructive process. Lastly, humanism sees learning as a personal act that is instrumental in fulfilling one’s potential.

Understanding how each theory contributes to the way people learn can provide us with guidance for how to best develop training programs for employees. Within the behaviorist theories of learning, we find three relevant theories: classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and social learning theories. Reinforcement theories explain the way employers ensure newly learned desirable behaviors introduced in training programs, such as a new work process or a new computer program, are rewarded.

Cognitivism differs from behaviorism because it suggests that people are more than just programmed to respond to stimuli. People must be active participants in their learning process. Cognitive load is the total amount of mental effort being used in working memory. When designing training programs, cognitive load should be reduced to maximize learning. Learning occurs through the process of memory encoding and retrieval, according to information processing theory. Information processing generally includes sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.

According to constructivism, learning is a constructive process that is active, not passive. Higher-order cognitive processes are utilized to develop interpretations and construct knowledge in the learning process. In active learning theory, learners, or trainees, control their own learning. The trainee assumes primary responsibility for learning decisions, and thus there is an internal regulation of learning.

The last category of learning theories we address is the humanism approach. Humanism suggests that learning occurs as a personal act to fulfill one’s potential. Experiential learning theory, argues learning is a process done through experience. Given experiential learning requires self-initiative, it fits in perfectly with the humanistic approach.