Feuerstein's Mediated Learning Experience theory with twelve criteria of mediation¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

Feuerstein's Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) theory explains differential cognitive development through the quality of interaction between a learner and a human mediator, which the article defines as "the interaction of the organism with itsenvironment via a human mediator." Feuerstein distinguishes twelve criteria of MLE, of which three are universals required in every mediating exchange: mediation of intentionality and reciprocity, of transcendence, and of meaning; the remaining nine are situationally determined qualities such as mediation of competence, regulation, goal-setting, challenge, and belonging. MLE is held responsible for human modifiability and diversity, and the theory is incompatible with behavioristic principles that leave meaning beyond psychological analysis.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• A learning exchange must include the three universal criteria -- intentionality and reciprocity, transcendence, and meaning -- to constitute MLE, including transmission of meaning.

Constraints¶

• MLE does not include all interactions, only those influencing the individual's propensity to learn; the nine secondary criteria need not appear in each interaction and vary with societal, environmental, and cultural factors.

Target Learners¶

• learners with varied cognitive structures including low-functioning adolescents and culturally deprived or minority learners

Target Learning Objectives¶

• cognitive prerequisites for learning, modifiability, and independent learning capacity

Claims¶

Related Theories¶

• A systematic framework of 35 indicators grouped under five quality criteria for MLE in Italian elementary schools
• Feuerstein's mediated learning: human mediation as prerequisite for direct learning
• Feuerstein's Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) theory: a human mediator modifies the learner's interaction with stimuli to build cognitive modifiability
• Three universal MLE criteria: intentionality and reciprocity, mediation of meaning, and transcendence
• Feuerstein's theory of structural cognitive modifiability and Mediated Learning Experience

Examples¶

• Use the quality-indicator framework as a self-evaluation instrument for teachers rather than an external ranking tool
• Instrumental Enrichment program
• Educators should act as mediators and facilitators of learning rather than content disseminators

Key Sources¶

• Presseisen, Barbara Z.; Kozulin, Alex. (1992). Mediated Learning--The Contributions of Vygotsky and Feuerstein in Theory and Practice. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED347202