What are learning theories and why are they important for learning design?

This opening post begins with some definitions of ‘learning’ and ‘learning theories’. I then highlight nine major learning theories. In subsequent posts, I will provide concise summaries and analyses of each theory. Following this, I present a table which compares the pedagogic properties of these theories. Next, I look at how learning theories can inform learning design and teaching practice. After that, I discuss how we can assess how useful a learning theory might be to inform our teaching practice. Finally, I consider if we need learning theories which specifically address digital technologies and online learning.