Explores major theories of learning, from behaviourism to constructivism to cognitivism, and how they can be used as tools to improve teaching.

In order to be a successful teacher you will need a clear understanding of the different ways in which children learn. Closely examining the learning process, and demonstrating how different theories support different teaching approaches, this book explores major theories of learning, recent research on the nature of the brain, and how they can be applied in the classroom.

Seamlessly balancing theory with the practical implications of different schools of thought, the authors accessibly present challenging ideas including:

" how you can influence learning and the development of understanding through your teaching;

" how different perspectives contribute to how we understand learning and the challenges raised by new ideas;

" applying learning theory to assessment in order to evaluate current practices;

" rich descriptions of learning in a range of contexts across age ranges using case studies, tasks, reflective questions and commentaries.

This is essential reading for students on primary and secondary initial teacher education courses, students on undergraduate Education Studies degrees and for teachers wanting to update their understanding.

Debra McGregor is Professor in Education at Oxford Brookes University.

Patricia Murphy is Professor of Education at The Open University.