Feuerstein's Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) theory: a human mediator modifies the learner's interaction with stimuli to build cognitive modifiability¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 3 claims (3 for) · 1 study (1 qualitative), q1 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 3 claims rest on one study

Description¶

MLE theory holds that intelligence is modifiable and that learning proceeds most effectively when a human mediator interposes between stimuli and the learner. The article describes it as "an effective interaction of the human organism; that is, the learner, with the environment via a human mediator, which occurs through systematic, experiential and structural exposure to stimuli". The mediator selects and reshapes stimuli, adjusting to the learner's phase, difficulty and needs, so the learner internalizes experiences and becomes independent. The study applies this theory to meaningful foreign language instruction with disadvantaged learners.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• A human mediator (generally a teacher, parent or caregiver) who sorts relevant from irrelevant stimuli and adjusts mediation to the learner's cognitive functions, motivation and needs

Constraints¶

• The article notes Feuerstein maintains that genetic or hereditary influence of intelligence cannot be disregarded, but is not the end of one's story

Target Learners¶

• Disadvantaged learners, including students in settings with limited learning opportunities

Target Learning Objectives¶

• Cognitive modifiability
• learning how to learn
• meaningful foreign language learning

Claims¶

• Feuerstein argues learning through direct, unmediated experience cannot yield meaningful learning or full modifiability [+W]
• MLE mediation is reported as applicable and beneficial even when learners receive it late or face environmental, socio-economic or mental barriers [+W]
• Students reported greater engagement, motivation and language use after MLE-mediated English lessons [+W]

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
• Three universal MLE criteria: intentionality and reciprocity, mediation of meaning, and transcendence
• Feuerstein's theory of structural cognitive modifiability and Mediated Learning Experience
• Feuerstein's Mediated Learning Experience theory with twelve criteria of mediation

Examples¶

• Five-stage MLE lesson pattern: curiosity arousal, explicit goals, meaning mediation, critical questioning, and transfer task
• Educators should act as mediators and facilitators of learning rather than content disseminators

Key Sources¶

• Mutlu, A. & Şahin, M. (2019). The Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) Theory in Meaningful Language Instruction. International Journal on New Trends in Education and Their Implications, 10(2). http://www.ijonte.org