When it comes to understanding how we learn, two big theories often come up.
Cognitive learning theory and behavioral theory.
They can be thought of as two diverging paths en route towards a similar destination: acquiring knowledge.
However, both approaches are distinct in nature.
Behavioral Theory centers on the observable elements: the actions, behaviors, and associated outcomes. More precisely, it deals with transforming actions via practice and consistent repetition.
On the other hand, cognitive learning theory considers internal aspects of a person’s intellect. It concentrates on the thought processes, recollection, and problem-solving capabilities.
Both approaches possess their own value, but only within their designated frameworks. Differentiating the two equips educators, guardians, and learners with strategies tailored towards optimal outcomes.
So, cognitive learning theory vs behavioral theory, what’s the difference in the learning style? We'll break it down for you.
What is Cognitive Learning Theory?
Cognitive Learning Theory (CLT) suggests that something occurs physically in your brain when acquiring knowledge.
Unlike behaviorism, which concentrates solely on outcomes, cognitive learning analyzes the reception of information, processing, storage, and subsequent recall in real-life contexts
Simply put, cognitive learning is understanding first, then applying.
Where Did It Come From?
Actually, CLT was pioneered by Jean Piaget in the 1930s.
He contested the mainstream behaviorist ideology of his time that exclusively relied on observable actions.
Piaget introduced the idea that learning is not a passive process where the learner absorbs information like a sponge, but rather an active process whereby the learner constructs knowledge.
He also presented the concept of schemas, which are mental frameworks that help organize, categorize, and make sense of our new experiences.
A schema is a mental folder. As you learn new things, you fit them into your existing folders or create new ones.
Another significant contributor is Albert Bandura. He incorporated the social aspect of learning into his Social Cognitive Theory. This shows how we learn by watching others.
Example
A teacher can apply the CLT approach by recalling what students know about fractions and then expanding their understanding with the concept of ratios. That’s CLT in action! Students reflect on these concepts and try to solve problems independently while receiving some assistance.
Key Concepts of Cognitive Learning Theory
Here are some major topics that CLT focuses on:
Schemas: Structures within the mind that allow someone to interpret and organize external stimuli.
Metacognition: The ability to introspect one’s learning processes and recognize their various forms.
Attention: As the brain is a limited information-processing device, focus is a prerequisite to ensure that information is processed effectively.
Memory: Information is stored in short-term or long-term memory based on the level of processing that was performed.
Motivation: An individual’s internal state drives them to act on stronger curiosity, enhancing learning.
How Does Learning Happen in Cognitive Learning Theory?
Learning in CLT, like the other approaches, does not only involve memorizing facts, instead, involves critical thinking and synthesis.
I simplified the most pertinent points in this process:
Step 1: Input: New information may be encountered through reading, observation, listening, or watching.
Step 2: Processing: The brain works to make sense of information, actively processing it through the mental frameworks you already possess.
Step 3: Storage: New information that aligns with knowledge bases or piques interest is stored in long-term memory.
Step 4: Output: Such information is later retrieved and applied to problem solving, decision-making, or innovation.
Where Is Cognitive Learning Theory (CLT) Used?
Cognitive learning theory is widely used in all forms of education, training, and personal development programs.
In Education
CLT helps teachers create lessons that connect new knowledge to what students already know. It encourages active learning and deeper understanding through:
Scaffolding (gradually reducing help as students grow),
Analogies to explain hard topics,
Open-ended questions to spark thinking,
Class discussions and peer teaching,
Visual aids and mind maps,
Journaling and reflection to process learning.
In Corporate Training
CLT supports employee development by building critical thinking and adaptability. It’s useful in:
Mentorship programs,
Feedback loops for self-evaluation,
Scenario-based eLearning,
Leadership and decision-making training.
In Personal Development
CLT is a great tool for lifelong learning. It’s used in:
Self-paced online courses,
Cognitive-behavioral coaching,
Time management and goal setting,
Habit formation and reflection practices,
In essence, CLT is everywhere learning happens, especially when the goal is to understand, reflect, and apply.
What is Behavioral Learning Theory?
Behavioral learning theory focuses primarily on actions, examining what individuals do and how they interact with their surroundings.
It centers around the concept of learning as a product of engagement with the external world and does not take thoughts and emotions into consideration.
To put it another way, behavior that is reinforced will occur again, while behavior that is punished will diminish.
Example
Consider the instance of a child learning how to say “please” when requesting an item. They are rewarded every time they use "please" by being given what they requested with a smile. With time, the word “please” is effortlessly part of their vocabulary.
Who Shaped the Idea Behind Cognitive Learning Theory
Behavioral Theory dates back to the early 20th century. It was heavily shaped by psychologists like:
John B. Watson, who believed psychology should be based only on what we can see in observable behavior.
B.F. Skinner, who introduced operant conditioning learning through consequences.
Ivan Pavlov, who discovered classical conditioning through his famous dog experiment.
Key Concepts of Behavioral Learning Theory
These are the main concepts with the focus of the theory:
Stimulus and Response: The event of receiving a sound or event the same behavior response is exhibited.
Reinforcement: Strengthening the likelihood of an event occurring through a positive effect having been given or through negative removal of something unpleasant.
Punishment: The nemesis of rewards in discouraging behavior.
Repetition: Enhancement of recall based on repetition of the same, or similar.
Shaping: Gradual guidance through reinforcement of decisive steps in towards shaping the desired behavior.
Do you know what are the main learning factors in behavioral learning theory? Let’s explore in detail!
How Does Learning Happen in Behavioral Learning Theory?
Under behavioral theory, changing behavior to obtain a desired outcome relies on learning as a result of experience. Here are the specific steps.
Stimulus: An environmental stimulus elicits a corresponding reaction and response, yielding an act-signal-equals-flight mechanism activation.
Response: The learner must attend to the stimulus and respond with a predefined action.
Consequence: Forthcoming rewards (reinforcement) of some behavior change, followed by punishment.
Behavior change: That's depends on the consequence and the outcome, and ... behavior can be improved or degraded.
Where Is Behavioral Theory Used?
In Classrooms
The application of behavioral theory spans from school disciplines to the shaping of student behavior through consistent reinforcement. Teachers
Provide reinforcement through praise, stickers, or points for appropriate behaviors or assignment completion.
Apply loss of privileges as a punishment for rule violation.
Encourage positive habit formation through structured routines and expectations.
Track and motivate students using behavioral charts and token economies.
In the Workplace
Behavioral principles are applied to enhance productivity and promote positive behaviors among employees. Organizations may:
Achieve pre-established milestone targets and provide bonuses or other incentives.
Reward positive behavior through employee recognition programs.
Adjust behavior through measurement and performance feedback mechanisms.
Apply immediate feedback training for on-the-job skill reinforcement.
In Therapy
Behavioral theory underpins many therapeutic techniques, especially in:
Behavior Modification Therapy is applied to phobias, addictions, and persistent habits.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) integrates thinking and acting changes.
Gradual exposure to fearful stimuli decreases fear-based responses.
Cognitive Learning Theory vs Behavioral Theory: What’s the Real Difference?
When it comes to the comparison of cognitive learning theory vs behavioral theory, both terms represent two major perspectives on how people learn.
Both theories have significant applications in education, training, and psychotherapy but each has its very own unique perspectives on learning.
Below, I’ll present the most important concepts simply and practically:
1. Focus of the Theory
Cognitive Learning Theory emphasizes thinking as an internal process, highlighting the understanding and retention of information.
Behavioral Theory concentrates more on the external aspect of learning and focuses on how actions change through reinforcement, punishment, and subsequent experiences.
To summarize: CLT concerns internal processes. Behavioral Theory concerns actions.
2. Role of the Learner
In CLT, the learner is considered an active participant who interacts with information, organizes it, and critically reflect on it.
In Behavioral Theory, the learner is more passive. The learner responds to surrounding stimuli and engages in trial-and-error processes.
In short, CLT conceptualizes learning as thinking, while Behaviorism understands learning as responding.
3. How Learning Happens
CLT states that learning occurs when we form mental connections and truly grasp something.
Behavioral theory states that learning occurs when a behavior is repeated and reinforced through reward or punishment.
Example: A student might remember a math formula because it “clicked” (CLT) or because they got a gold star for using it correctly (Behaviorism).
4. View on Thoughts and Feelings
CLT believes that thoughts, emotions, and motivation play a big role in learning.
Behavioral Theory mostly ignores what can’t be seen, like feelings, and focuses only on actions.
In other words, CLT looks at the learner’s mind. Behavioral Theory looks at the learner’s behavior.
5. The Primary Contributors to the Theory
The contributions of Jean Piaget, Jerome Bruner, and Albert Bandura are fundamental in the development of Cognitive Learning Theory.
Researchers B.F. Skinner, John Watson, and Ivan Pavlov are credited with Developing Behavioral Theory.
Did you know: One of the best-known behavioral studies is Pavlov’s experiments with dogs, which learned to salivate at the sound of a bell.
6. Educational Practice
Properly Constructed Learning Theory (CLT) applies open-ended questions, scaffolding, and self-assessment triggers to inspire learners.
Behavioral approaches focus on motivation by employing praise, stickers, punishments, and defined expectations.
For instance, “Why do you think that?” as an instructional query aligns with CLT, while rewarding completion of assigned homework aligns with behaviorism.
7. Motivation Style
CLT focuses on intrinsic motivation; students learn because they’re curious or want to grow.
Behaviorism uses extrinsic motivation like rewards, grades, or consequences.
Learner A learns because they’re excited. Learner B learns because they want a prize.
8. Application in Real Life
CLT is used in areas that require deep thinking, like problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making perfect for education and leadership training.
Behavioral Theory is used for routine-based training, classroom management, therapy, and habit-building.
Do you want to teach someone to think deeply? Use CLT. Want to teach someone to follow steps or rules? Use behaviorism.
9. What Gets Measured
In CLT, success is measured by the understanding and application of ideas.
In Behaviorism, success is measured by whether the desired behavior happened or not.
One tests comprehension, the other checks if someone followed the right steps.
10. Use in the Workplace
CLT is great for helping employees handle complex tasks, adapt to change, and think critically.
Behaviorism is helpful in compliance training, safety drills, or sales performance, where certain behaviors must be repeated.
11. Flexibility in Learning
CLT allows for flexible thinking and creativity. Learners can apply knowledge in new situations.
Behaviorism is more about routine and repetition—great for forming habits, but less flexible.
Overall, CLT helps you solve new problems. Behaviorism helps you do the same thing better each time.
12. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Learning
CLT supports long-term, meaningful learning. Learners build knowledge over time.
Behavioral Theory is good for quick behavior change, but not always for deep understanding.
What’s the Final Opinion?
Well, both theories offer useful tools, but they work best in different situations.
If you want to develop deep understanding, creativity, and independence, Cognitive Learning Theory is the way to go.
On the contrary, if your goal is to instruct on routines, regulate actions, or shape behaviors, then Behavioral Theory will be of assistance.
Through the synthesis of both theories, results can be maximized.
For example, you can motivate students through rewards as they process information using cognitive approaches.
Top 3 Platforms that Support All learning Styles
Now, we’ll explore the top three online teaching platforms that support all learning and teaching styles.
1. EzyCourse
Intent: Best for educators who want a smart, easy-to-use platform that works for all kinds of learners.
EzyCourse helps teachers and course creators create engaging and flexible online courses. It supports different learning styles, including visual, audio, and hands-on, through interactive videos, quizzes, and assignments (for cognitive learning).
There are also gamification tools, badges, and tracking tools (for behavioral learning). Students feel motivated with rewards while also building understanding step-by-step.
You can use it for all of your learning and teaching needs, whether you are a teacher, coach, course creator, or entrepreneur.
However, with EzyCourse, you can easily create fun and effective lessons for children, adults, and professionals.
What You Get in EzyCourse
Create full courses with 12+ lesson types and smart pricing.
Run live classes right inside the platform.
Upload interactive lessons and track progress like a pro.
Add auto-subtitles to videos in seconds with AI Subtitle Generator.
Keep your digital stuff safe and protected.
Sell your courses worldwide with smart pricing.
Make learning feel like a game (points, rewards, motivation!).
Talk directly to students without extra tools.
Pricing Details about EzyCourse
Essential– $59/month
Ideal for personal creators
Unlimited courses & pages
Free EzyCourse app
2 communities, 5 channels each
5 digital products
Custom forms, domains, and certificates
Automation workflow builder
10K monthly emails
Membership site tools
Pro – $139/month
For professional creators
Everything in Basic, plus:
White-label apps & gamification
Advanced analytics & reports
Affiliate program
Appointment scheduler
50,000 marketing emails/month
5 communities, 5 video libraries
Unlimited – $199/month
True unlimited access
Everything in Pro, plus:
VIP support
Unlimited everything (admins, chats, currencies, libraries)
Multi-level affiliates
100,000 marketing emails/month
40,000 live video minutes
Elite – $299/month
Best for businesses
Everything in Unlimited, plus:
All future add-ons ($17k+ value)
500,000 marketing emails/month
CEO access & elite support
WhatsApp tech team group
Zoom Premium license
Good Things
All-in-one platform
20+ revenue streams
170+ language support
Instant payments
Native mobile apps
24/7 customer support
Fast and secure hosting
Active, helpful user community
Amazing user reviews across G2, Trustpilot, AppSumo
Downsides
Some premium add-ons
Why EzyCourse Is Great for All Learning Styles
Cognitive learners love how EzyCourse supports deep learning, advanced quizzes, interactive content, progress tracking, and reflection-friendly formats like long-form video and lesson journaling.
Behavioral learners thrive with gamification, instant feedback, and reward-based features like badges and drip content. You can design learning paths that reward consistency, completion, and participation.
All and all, it works beautifully whether your students are thinkers, doers, watchers, or talkers.
And for you? It’s a one-stop shop that handles courses, memberships, events, appointments, emails, apps, websites, and products.
So, if you want to teach, grow, and earn, EzyCourse is truly built for you.
2. Thinkific
Intent: Best for structured learning, especially for business, coaching, or skill-based education.
Thinkific is great for building structured and professional-looking courses. It uses videos, presentations, and PDFs to help learners understand topics clearly (cognitive).
At the same time, it offers quizzes, certificates, and timed content to keep learners motivated (behavioral).
Also, Thinkific works well for self-paced learning, training programs, and professional courses. It’s easy to use and helps instructors create step-by-step lessons.
What You'll Get in Thinkific
Create as many courses as you like.
Easily design courses without coding.
Offer eBooks, guides, and templates.
Host webinars and coaching sessions.
Build interactive learning communities.
Assess student progress effectively.
Generate recurring revenue.
Provide completion certificates to students.
Brand your site with your own domain.
Accept payments seamlessly.
Pricing Details of Thinkific
Basic Plan ($49/month or $36/month billed annually):
Unlimited courses
1 community with 5 spaces
5 digital downloads
5 coaching & webinar sessions
1 administrator
Start Plan ($99/month or $74/month billed annually):
Includes all Basic features, plus:
Unlimited digital downloads
Unlimited coaching & webinars
10 spaces per community
Assignments
Bundles and add-on packages
Memberships & payment plans
Grow Plan ($199/month or $149/month billed annually):
Includes all Start features, plus:
3 communities with 20 spaces each
2 administrators
Phone and priority email support
Expand Plan ($499/month or $374/month billed annually):
Includes all Grow features, plus:
10 communities with unlimited spaces
5 administrators
15 course administrator accounts
Plus Plan (Custom pricing):
Includes all Expand features, plus:
Unlimited courses and communities
Unlimited administrators
Good Things About Thinkific
User-friendly interface.
No transaction fees.
Comprehensive course creation tools.
Integrated e-commerce features.
Customizable branding options.
Robust community-building features.
Flexible pricing plans.
Excellent customer support.
Secure and reliable platform.
Downsides
Advanced features require higher-tier plans.
Limited design customization without coding.
No built-in email marketing (requires integration).
Branded mobile app costs extra.
Why Choose Thinkific for All Learning Styles?
Thinkific is designed to support various teaching methods, making it ideal for both cognitive and behavioral learning styles.
Its intuitive platform allows educators to create engaging courses, foster interactive communities, and provide assessments to track progress.
With flexible pricing and a range of features, Thinkific empowers you to deliver quality education tailored to your audience's needs.
3. Podia
Intent: Best for those who want a friendly, all-in-one tool with a focus on community and connection.
Podia is designed for creators, coaches, and educators looking to connect with audiences and share knowledge. It offers everything you need under one roof, without the tech headaches, from online courses and digital downloads to live webinars and coaching sessions.
Podia excels in its focus on community and connection. Creating a learning experience isn't just about selling a product.
You can also engage learners with video, text, and other content types that suit different cognitive styles.
You also support behavioral learning with features like community spaces, scheduled lessons, and progress reminders.
It's education with heart and structure.
Podia gives you the necessary tools no matter where you are on your teaching journey.
What You’ll Get with Podia
Sell eBooks, PDFs, and other digital files
Host live webinars or offer recorded replays.
Offer coaching sessions and manage bookings easily.
Create a community space for audience interaction.
Send newsletters and automate email campaigns.
Build a website with no coding required.
Share blog posts to keep the audience engaged.
Allow others to promote products and earn commissions.
Pricing Details of Podia
Podia offers two main plans:
Mover Plan
Monthly: $39/month
Annually: $33/month (billed annually)
Transaction Fee: 5%
Shaker Plan
Monthly: $89/month
Annually: $75/month (billed annually)
Transaction Fee: 0%
Good Thing About Podia
Easy to set up and navigate.
Combines multiple tools in one platform.
Design without technical skills.
No caps on what you can sell.
Offer payment plans to customers.
Engage with your audience directly.
Expand reach through affiliates.
Help available seven days a week.
Continuous improvements and
Downsides:
5% fee on Mover plan.
Fewer third-party app connections.
Only a 30-day trial available.
Less customizable than some competitors.
Lacks a dedicated mobile application.
Why Choose Podia for All Learning Styles?
Podia stands out as a comprehensive platform catering to various learning styles.
Its intuitive design ensures that both educators and learners can focus on the content without technical distractions.
With tools for creating, marketing, and selling all in one spot, Podia makes learning effective and engaging
Which platform is best?
Based on comparisons of popular learning platforms, EzyCourse is the best all-in-one platform for every type of learner.
Because:
Cognitive Learning? EzyCourse offers unlimited courses, custom pages, quizzes, drip lessons, and advanced grading systems.
Behavioral Learning? EzyCourse offers gamification, coins, motivation pop-ups, live video streaming, and community chats to keep learners engaged and active.
With EzyCourse, you can create a system that suits your students' learning styles. From free mobile apps to white-label solutions, affiliate programs, upsells, and built-in email marketing, it's more than just a course builder; it's a complete learning ecosystem.
Whatever your starting point, EzyCourse gives you the control, creativity, and connection you need to deliver meaningful learning.
Last Note
In the end, Cognitive Learning Theory vs. Behavioral Theory, both play influential roles in learning.
While Behavioral Theory builds strong habits through repetition and rewards, Cognitive Learning Theory helps us understand, reflect, and grow mentally.
The truth is, the best learning often comes from using both together. That’s why choosing the right platform matters so much.
However, EzyCourse is built for every kind of learner. EzyCourse supports both learning processes, whether you prefer to do things or think things over.
It offers powerful tools for interactive learning, deep understanding, and habit-building, all in one place. It is wise to use EzyCourse if you wish to create courses suitable for all learning styles.
So, now is the time to start helping your learners grow from the inside out.
