As learning theories evolve, new theories are introduced as the needs of society changes and old theories are dismissed. The main theories of cognitivism, constructivism, behavioralism, and now connectivism are continually being scrutinized by professionals, especially when a new theory is introduced. Ben Kerr (2007) makes this point about behavioralism in his blog posting http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html. “So, although it is possible to make perfectly valid criticisms of Skinner's behaviourism or the theoretical foundation of cognitivism that is not the end of the story” (Kerr, 2007).

As the debate continued with behavioralism, cognitivism became the preferred learning theory. The idea that learning is and internal process seemed to make it more individual and personal. The roles of the learner and instructor changed, as did the process of learning based on the cognitive approach being utilized. In Michael Hanley's blog on behavioralism, he identifies Gagne's Nine Events of Instruction.This helps both the learner and instructor understand their roles in learning and what transpires during the learning process.

Through the interpretations and understanding of the different learning theories, many tend to conclude that the theories are not complete by themselves. "We need to take pieces from each school of thought and apply it effectively because…Cognitivism doesn’t explain 100% how humans process information and neither does Constructivism or Behaviorism" (Knapp, 2007).  The points that Karl Kapp makes in his blog help us to understand that by utilizing all the required components of each theory that fits a particular learning model, we will better serve the learning community.