The Learning Theories Profle: A Metacognitive Tool for Reflecting on Professional Practice

Abstract

The Learning Theories Profle (LTP) supports professionals to locate various learning theories within four epistemological quadrants of the Matrix of Perspectives. Professionals can use this tool to identify some of the theories they hold and toreflect on the alignment between their espoused theories and theories-in-use. Forty-four resource teachers used the LTP and demonstrated that they were guided by a range of theories, most commonly interactive theories. A strong relationship wasobserved between espoused and in-use theories. Participants’ responses indicated the positive value of the LTP for supporting professionals to analyse and optimise interaction occurring in complex contexts of practice.