Theory Into Practice

The Learner-Centered Psychological Principles (LCPs) provide a holistic framework that integrates social constructivist and cognitive theories, as well as motivational and individual differences theories. We have used these to better align our own classroom practice with the rapidly expanding knowledge about how learning occurs. In an active and collaborative learning environment, we have used specific instructional techniques, identifying similarities and differences strategies, to enhance students' thinking and learning skills. Original research on the novice-expert continuum supports the domains of the LCPs and underscores the importance of strategies to engage students in identifying similarities and differences to enhance students' abilities to "think like a professional."