Learning theories allow for new and creative solutions to be developed in modern society, there can be no doubt about that. However, there is no miracle theory that can solve every problem every single time. Contrary to what leading theorists may individually say, some theories pair better with certain situations than others. As a result of this reality, a good instructional designer has to be able to properly evaluate the situation and then apply the appropriate theory-based on that evaluation. 

As referenced in the Immanuel Kant quote above, it is the pairing of experience with theory that makes for the ideal solution. In this section, I am going to explain what I believe that relationship should look like and how I try to use that relationship when approaching problems. 

Below are some natural examples where Situated Learning Theory takes place

Humans are always learning, however, we don't always apply educational terminology to these daily interactions. When you learn a new skill at work you usually don't go straight to social media and tell people that you have recently mastered a skill at work and have collected summative and formative data to support this claim. 

In the examples pictured above, all of them require various skills and knowledge. For each one of those topics/images, you can find videos, books, and even support groups. However, all of the experienced individuals in these fields will often at some point tell you the same thing. 

YOU JUST ARE GOING TO HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF. 

Therefore, when designing projects this concept of learning through experience needs to be utilized as often as possible. This theory plays into two aspects of human learning that are pretty consistent over the course of human history. 

1.) Humans love stories and storytelling.

Whether it be oral history through Ancient Myths or even a video highlighting a recent journey on a video game, humans tend to be captivated and invested in good stories. Think about your favorite story you've heard over the past five years. Creating a learning experience that has a story to it is a good foundation for building meaningful and lasting learning. 

2.) Humans prioritize and value information that they believe will help them in their current environment.

If you are employed right now you can probably think of a skill or piece of information you were "taught" but never used. And to take it one step further, if you were tasked with onboarding a new employee you would probably say the phrase "This is how you do X Y and Z, but you'll never use it." If a learner can't picture a realistic scenario in the near future where the information will be relevant, then they will forget the information and struggle to recall it at a later date. 

Before you select your learning theory, you must first figure out what needs to be "learned".

 Is it....

^^^^Click on the links in each section above to see how each situation requires a slightly different approach. ^^^^^