Gestalt-Insight
Learning
Theory
Iris M. Chavez
Core idea:
Gestalt-insight learning emphasizes
the sudden realization or "aha
moment" where learners perceive the
solution to a problem by grasping the
relationships between all elements in
a situation. It focuses on the cognitive
processes involved in problem-solving
and perceiving wholes, rather than
relying solely on reinforcement or
repetition.
Proponents of Gestalt-insight learning theory are:
1. Wolfgang Köhler
- Known for his experiments with chimpanzees, Köhler demonstrated insight
learning, where solutions to problems are realized suddenly by understanding
relationships between elements.
2. Max Wertheimer
- A pioneer of Gestalt psychology, Wertheimer focused on how humans perceive
patterns and wholes, laying the foundation for Gestalt principles in learning.
3. Kurt Koffka
- Koffka contributed significantly to the application of Gestalt principles in
developmental psychology and learning, emphasizing the importance of holistic
perception.
These psychologists collectively shaped the Gestalt-Insight Learning Theory,
emphasizing holistic understanding and problem-solving.
Gestalt Theory
It focuses on how humans perceive and organize
experiences, emphasizing the idea that we learn by
understanding the whole rather than piecemeal
components. This theory plays a major role in
cognitive psychology and education.
Gestalt
• is a german word.
• It means form or
configuration.
The focus of Gestalt
Theory was the idea of
Grouping.
Principles of Gestalt Theory:
1. Learners were not passive, but rather
active.
2. Learners do not just collect information as
is, but they actively process and restructure
data to understand it.
3. Factors like past experiences, needs,
attitudes and one's present situations can
affect their perception.
4. Teachers should encourage students to
discover the relationships of the elements
that make up a problem.
Principles of Gestalt Theory:
5. Incongruities, gaps, or disturbances are
essential stimuli in the learning process.
6. Educational instructions should be based
on the laws of organization.
Kohlër's Insight
Learning
• Wolfgang Kohlër is one of the contributors of
Gestalt Learning.
• Proponent of Insight Learning Theory.
Understanding vs.
Trial and Error
It is an immediate and
clear learning or
understanding that occurs
all of a sudden though
understanding the
relationships of various
parts of a problem rather
than trial and error.
Insight
Learning
Insight Heuristics
It is a mental
It is realizing a shortcuts to help
new behavior to process a large
solve a problem. amount of
information.
Kohlër's famous
experiment
Kohler's experiment
consisted of placing
chimpanzees in a
enclosed area and
presenting them with
a reward that was out
of reach, such as
banana.
Insight Learning
✅ Visualizing the problem
✅ Visualizing the solution
internally
❌ Not the result of trial
and error.
❌ not responding to
environmental stimulus.
❌ Observing someone.
The process of
Insight Learning:
1. Surveying relevant conditions of the
presentend stimulus and seeking their
relationship.
2. Determining the instrumental value of
a tool either object or information as a
means of solving problem.
3. "Eureka" experience or "aha"
moment.
Conclusions:
the Gestalt-insight learning theory
highlights the importance of perception,
problem-solving, and holistic
understanding in the learning process.
This theory emphasizes that individuals
grasp the "big picture" and recognize
patterns to arrive at sudden insights,
leading to meaningful learning rather
than rote memorization. This approach
not only fosters deeper comprehension
but also equips learners with critical
thinking and problem-solving skills
applicable beyond the classroom.
Thank you
for your
attention.
I R I S M . C H AV E Z
