Elaboration Theory by April Cruz

Reigeluth’s Elaboration Theory
*April Cruz*

 This theory can be related to and a subcategory of cognitivism as it related to a mental process in which learners absorb, interpret and learn how to store and retrieve information learned.

 The Elaboration Theory is a certain type of process emphasizing organizational instruction. “Instruction should be organized in increasing order of complexity for optimal learning.” (Cullata, 2013). Individuals learn through a sequential order. This can either be in a topical or spiral sequence strategy. 

The point of this sequential process is so the learner may have better control of keeping the lesson in one’s memory and so they may easily transfer over their new knowledge.

An example of elaboration is teaching mathematics and the order of operations. Students must first learn how to add and subtract. Secondly, they may move on and understand the concepts of multiplication and division. Thirdly, they can learn how to evaluate mathematical expressions with the PEMDAS method. (Parenthesis, exponents, multiplication and/or divisions, and addition and/or subtraction.) 

Another example is the differences between a 2 year degree and a 4 year degree in a certain subject. Although, the 2 degrees are the same, their learning outcomes are different based upon the level of skill being taught during that time period. 

The elaboration theory is described to be a meaningful learning process. The learner is taught in an orderly and timely paced manner so the learner can fully understand the concept. Review or summary of past lessons is a key concept in the elaboration process because it helps with the sequencing or bridging of learning and applying the lesson being taught to use.

Key Terms and Definitions

Topical Sequencing: Teaching to a certain depth with complete understanding before moving on.

Spiral Sequencing: When learners learn gradually one lesson after another before to the original topic to learn the overall lesson.

References

 Culatta, R. (2013). “Instructional Design: Elaboration Theory.” Retrieved October 11, 2014, from http://www.instructionaldesign.org/theories/elaboration-theory.html

Anonymous, Retrieved October 11, 2014 from http://www.personal.psu.edu/wxh139/Elaborate.htm

Anonymous, retrieved October 12, 2014 from http://test.scripts.psu.edu/users/k/q/kqy1/kb/id.htm