Computers, Cockroaches, and Ecosystems: Understanding Learning through Metaphor

by Kevin J. Pugh

Of all the topics ever studied, surely one of the most compelling is human learning itself. What is the nature of the human mind? How do we understand and process new information? Where do new ideas come from? How is our very intelligence a product of society and culture? Computers, Cockroaches, and Understanding Learning through Metaphor brings to light the great discoveries about human learning by illuminating key metaphors underlying the major learning perspectives. Such metaphors include, among others, the mind as computer, the mind as ecosystem, and the mind as cultural tools. These metaphors reveal the essence of different learning perspectives in a way that is accessible and engaging for teachers and students. Each metaphor is brought to life through stories ranging from the humorous to the profound. The book conveys scholarly ideas in a personal manner and will be a delight for teachers, university students, parents, business or military trainers, or anyone with an interest in learning.

180 pages, Hardcover

Published February 13, 2017

About the author

Professor, Educational Psychology

I research and write about learning, motivation, and experience. My first book is an engaging account of the "big ideas" of learning. I wrote this book for my students because the textbook are too boring.

As a researcher, I am a founder of transformative experience theory. Too often the Las Vegas slogan "What Happens Here Stays Here" applies to education. The learning that takes place in the classroom stays in the classroom and fails to transform everyday experience. Transformative experience theory explains why this happens and presents a model of how to foster transformative learning experiences. I am currently writing a book for science teachers on teaching for transformative experience.

Outside of academics, I love to rock climb, fly fish, backcountry ski, hike, or basically do anything outdoors.

Reviews

[Kole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to read this book for my Learning Theory class. It is a great book that helps to explain the different learning theories. It wasn't just a bunch of terms and endless information. The author used great metaphors, stories, and examples to illustrate each learning theory. The information was relevant and informative. This book made learning about these theories fun and transformative.

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thrilled to read the part about memory theories and strategies. World memory competitions- how exciting! It was helpful for me to start preparing for school after a break and practicing my brain skills during mental difficulty.

[Katarina Pantic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent for helping your students the big picture in a learning theory. Does not go into detail.