There are many introductory textbooks on learning. Of those below, Jordan et al offer an overview of major approaches and address the implications for policy and practice. Wood is very highly regarded as a clear, research-based account of different psychological perspectives, Whitebread’s collection provides expert coverage of a wide range of topics in relation to primary education specifically, while Collins and Cook offer a multidisciplinary approach to the many different strands which make an education.
Jordan, A., Carlile, O. and Stack, A. (2008) Approaches to Learning: a Guide for Teachers, Maidenhead: Open University Press.
Wood, D. (1997) How Children Think and Learn: The Social Contexts of Cognitive Development. London: Wiley-Blackwell Oxford: Blackwell.
Whitebread, D. (Ed) (2000) The Psychology of Teaching and Learning in the Primary School, London: RoutledgeFalmer.
Collins, J. and Cook, D. (2001) Understanding Learning: Influences and Outcomes, London: Paul Chapman.
Across the world, there are also significant attempts to take stock and review everything that is known about learning and schooling. Bransford, Brown and Cocking's book is one influential outcome.
Bransford, J. D., Brown, A. I. and Cocking, R. R. (Eds.) (2000) How People Learn: Brain, Mind, Experience and School. Washington, DC: National Academy Press. (Reading 4.1)
Chapter 7 of Alexander (Ed) offers the findings on learning and development of the Cambridge Primary Review, the most comprehensive enquiry into English primary education for half a century.
Alexander, R. (Ed) (2010) Children, their World, their Education. Final Report and Recommendations of the Cambridge Primary Review. Abingdon: Routledge.
