Teaching and Learning Theories

Course Description: 

This course provides physical therapy educators with a comprehensive overview of teaching and learning theories, with a special focus on the signature pedagogy of physical therapy education "Human Body as Teacher." Participants will explore foundational learning theories such as behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and social learning theory.

• Format: Asynchronous, on-demand
• Cost: Academy of Education Members $30, Non-members $75
• Earn CEU: .3 (3 contact hours)

Intended Audience:
New physical therapy faculty

Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of the Educational Session, attendees will be able to

1. Describe foundational learning theories—including behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and social learning theory—and their relevance to physical therapy education.
2. Apply key principles from foundational learning theories to select instructional strategies that support cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skill development in physical therapy learners.
3. Critically examine how various learning theories account for student engagement,knowledge acquisition, and skill development in physical therapy education.
4. Analyze the signature pedagogy, “Human Body as Teacher”, in parallel with foundational learning theories in the context of the three apprenticeships of professional education– Habits of mind, hand, and heart.
5. Construct a learning theory application matrix that integrates behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and social learning theory with corresponding instructional strategies across classroom and clinical environments.