Cognitive Flexibility Theory proposes that effective learning is context-dependent and requires constructed knowledge from multiple perspectives. It stresses that instruction should not oversimplify content and should support case-based, interconnected learning rather than compartmentalized information. The theory is being used to develop video-based learning environments for teacher education and recommends portfolios and projects to assess more flexible teaching of complex content areas like science and history.

1. Cognitive Flexibility Theory Dr. Rand J. Spiro, Paul J. Feltovitch, & Richard L. Coulson Jessica Kohler

2. Is specially formulated to support the use of interactive technology. Is concerned with the transfer of knowledge beyond the first learning situtation. Is interested in the emphasis of information being presented from multiple perspectives. Suggests that effective learning is context-dependent, so instruction needs to be very specific. Stresses the importance of constructed knowledge; learners must be given an opportunity to develop their own representations of information in order to properly learn. Source: Kearsley, G. (February 18, 2010). The theory into practice database. Retrieved from http://tip.psychology.org Cognitive Flexibility Theory...

3. Principles of Cognitive Flexibility Theory Learning activities must provide multiple representations of content. Instructional materials should not be oversimplified and support context-dependent knowledge. Instruction should be case-based and emphasize knowledge construction, not transmission of information. Knowledge sources should be highly interconnected rather than compartmentalized. Source: Kearsley, G. (February 18, 2010). The theory into practice database. Retrieved from http://tip.psychology.org

4. Implications for Teacher Education Cognitive Flexibility Theory is being used in a variety of context with regard to teacher education. The theory has been used to develop video-based learning environments to teach reading/writing workshop. Source: Boger-Mehall, S. (February 18, 2010). Cognitive Flexibility Theory: Implications for Teaching and Teacher Education. Retrieved from http://www.kdassem.dk/didaktik/l4-16.htm

5. Implications for Teaching Content areas such as science and history benefit from this theory due to the complex content. Portfolios, projects, and visual essays should be used as assessment tools to compliment a more flexible teaching method. Source: Boger-Mehall, S. (February 18, 2010). Cognitive Flexibility Theory: Implications for Teaching and Teacher Education. Retrieved from http://www.kdassem.dk/didaktik/l4-16.htm