Final Paper Instructions

This assignment will allow you to create your own customized theory of human learning and development. Everyone operates with a theory of what makes the best learning environment and how people grow and develop. The problem is that most education professionals’ theories are neither well-informed nor clearly articulated. Thus, for this paper, you will articulate your theory of how to establish the best learning environment. You will support it by using theoretical perspectives of what defines the best in education from a Christian perspective. Your completed paper will give you a conceptual framework from which to draw strategies and practices for the success of all parties involved in the teaching-learning process.

The paper must be a total of 7 pages: 5 pages for the body, 1 title page, and 1 reference page. It must include at least 6 scholarly sources from the Jerry Falwell Library, plus both textbooks (Slavin & Schunk and Van Brummelen). All sources must be published within the past 5 years. Points will not be deducted if the number of sources you use exceeds the minimum requirement.

Throughout your paper, you must also weave a solid biblical basis for your theory that is supported by specific scriptures referenced by chapter and verse . Your Final Paper must be concise, well-developed, and follow current APA format.

You may find it useful to focus on the educational area in which you intend to serve (elementary, middle, high school, gifted, ADHD, special education, etc.). 

Throughout this paper, it is essential that you demonstrate your understanding of the readings and course work. Your learning theory must be unified and congruent. Organize your paper using the following headings:

1) Introduction

2) Learning Theory and Its Importance

3) Description of an Effective Teacher 

4) Description of an Effective Learning Environment (Include discussions of direct instruction, technology, motivation, classroom management.)

5) Actively Including and Engaging Learners with Diverse Needs and Exceptionalities

6) Addressing Behavior and Character Development

7) Engaging Students in Learning, Building Self-Efficacy and Motivation

8) Personal Reflections/Conclusion 

Throughout your paper, be sure to include principles of the developmental learning theories (i.e., Piaget, Kohlberg, Vvgotsky, Erickson, Bandura, etc.) studied in this course, as they relate to your educational area and population. Incorporate specific theoretical terminology that demonstrates your understanding of each of the theories. Then, support your customized learning theory from both a developmental and biblical perspective throughout your paper. You will find valuable information for each of these sections in your course textbooks.

The grading rubric for this assignment can be found in Blackboard and at LiveText.com. Be sure to follow it. Please submit your assignment in both Blackboard and LiveText. 

Submit this assignment by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Sunday of Module/Week 7.