Conceptual Learning | Definition, Benefits, and Examples

Conceptual learning is often seen as a trendy term in the eLearning industry. However, it is a transformative approach to education. The answer is - the transformative approach. Conceptual learning allows you to provide materials that teach the “how” and “why” behind each concept. It moves away from forcing students to memorize facts. 

Throughout this guide, we will dive deeper into conceptual learning. We will overview everything from what it is to its benefits and examples. 

What is conceptual learning? 

Before moving further into the article, let’s first clarify the definitions. Conceptual learning focuses on understanding core principles and ideas. It prioritizes comprehension over memorization.

A more complex definition is provided in Research Gate (Fletcher et al., 2019). It is provided in the article “A Concept Analysis of Conceptual Learning.” The definition is: 

“Conceptual learning is a process in which learners organize concept-relevant knowledge, skills, and attitudes to form logical cognitive connections resulting in assimilation, storage, retrieval, and transfer of concepts to applicable situations, familiar and unfamiliar”.

The goal of conceptual learning is to help students digest the information better. Conceptual learning connects individual pieces of information to broader concepts. It helps students see the “big picture” and understand deeper meanings. It has also been proven to be more efficient in terms of the practical application of knowledge. 

The key characteristics of conceptual learning are: 

• Focus on understanding rather than memorization of facts. 
• Encourages learners to see connections between different concepts and ideas. 
• Entails active engagement. Often includes activities such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and discussions. 
• Enables learners to apply their knowledge to new situations. 
• Promote higher-order thinking skills, including analysis and synthesis. 
• Contributes to long-term knowledge retention. 

What makes conceptual learning different from rote learning? 

Let’s take a deeper dive into conceptual learning. This will help us to understand what makes it different from rote learning. 

Rote learning is a memorization-based approach. It focuses on repeating information until it is memorized. Rote learning is often accompanied by knowledge without understanding its meaning or context. 

Conceptual learning and rote learning differ in several important areas. For example, in terms of

• Knowledge application. 

In terms of knowledge application, rote learning emphasizes recalling facts. Thus, knowledge is often combined with memorization, limiting its use in specific contexts. 

Conceptual learning focuses on applying the knowledge in real-world situations. Students learn how to use core concepts in new contexts. This makes the knowledge transferable. 

• Skills they focus on developing. 

Rote learning develops memorization and recall skills. The aim is to retain information instead of applying it creatively. 

Conceptual learning develops critical thinking and analytical skills. Students learn how to understand, analyze, and apply concepts in various scenarios.

• Engagement. 

Rote learning leads to passive engagement, as the focus is information retention. 

Conceptual learning encourages active participation. Thus, it also fosters active engagement with the material. 

• Assessment. 

Assessments in rote learning are focused on recalling and tests. The test typically focuses on memorized facts, dates, and formulas. It places little emphasis on understanding.

Conceptual learning assignments focus on a deeper understanding of the concepts. They emphasize the practical application of what has been learned. Tests may involve problem-solving and analysis. They assess the ability to transfer knowledge to new situations.

What are examples of conceptual learning? 

Let's understand the concept of conceptual learning better. To do so it is important to explore examples across niches. 

• Using conceptual learning in Langauge Arts 

For instance, conceptual learning in Language Arts differs from rote learning. In rote learning, students memorize plot points, character names, and dates. They don’t understand their significance.

In conceptual learning, the focus shifts to understanding themes, symbols, and structures. While studying a novel, students explore the author’s narrative techniques. They look for deeper messages about society, identity, and conflict.

In conceptual learning, students analyze literary elements like metaphor, irony, and foreshadowing. These help uncover the text's deeper meaning, not just memorizing the plot.

• Using conceptual learning in History 

Rote learning in history would also revolve around memorization, such as memorizing dates, names, and key events. Yet, when it comes to conceptual learning, the focus is elsewhere. The focus would be on exploring patterns in history. Patterns in relation to the events and analysis of their impact on civilizations. This will equip students with better knowledge. It will also contribute to higher information retention rates. How? As it allows for meaningful discussions and requires critical thinking and analysis.  

• Using conceptual learning in Mathematics 

Rote learning in math is all about memorizing as well. It includes remembering formulas and specific steps to solve problems. Yet, conceptual learning is about learning concepts behind mathematical operations. For instance, in geometry. Instead of memorizing the formula, students should learn how the formula came to be. 

• Using conceptual learning in Music 

Memorizing pieces of music or scales note by note. This memorization does not imply any understanding of the theory behind the music. Or learning to play songs. Play by repeating them without grasping the underlying musical principles. All of this is rote learning.  

Conceptual learning will take students on a better journey in the world of music. Students learn the theory behind music. For instance, the relationships between notes, scales, chords, and harmony. They understand how music is constructed, and how rhythms and melodies interact. This makes the ultimate learning experience more enjoyable. 

• Using conceptual learning in Programming 

Memorizing snippets or syntax rules is necessary. But, without understanding how they work, practical application becomes difficult. That is why even in programming conceptual learning is crucial. Students focus on understanding programming concepts like logic, data structures, and algorithms. They learn how these elements solve problems. Instead of memorizing coding syntax, students learn how to approach problem-solving. They also explore how different languages share similar concepts. 

• Using conceptual learning in Arts 

Once again, reproducing art techniques or copying a style is about rote learning. Art is much deeper when it comes to conceptual learning. With conceptual learning, students can explore principles of design, color, and perspective. Essentially, this illustrative approach enhances their learning (Rawson). They also can understand how emotion and culture apply to different styles. 

Why implementing conceptual learning is worth it?

Implementing conceptual learning benefits both your students and you as an instructor. To retain students, attract more learners, and increase sales, you must provide value.

Offering valuable learning experiences leads to higher knowledge retention. It also allows students to apply their skills. Thus, enhancing your reputation as a course creator. This will contribute to better authority in the market and word-of-mouth marketing. 

At the end of the day, conceptual learning is one of the most effective forms of learning. It helps you stand out, build credibility, and provide immense value to your students.

Bringing conceptual learning into eLearning

Are you wondering which platform to use for courses webinars, and training? You are in the right place. Here, you'll find options that support conceptual learning techniques. Uteach is an all-in-one platform for coaches and course creators. It comes in handy with features ranging from website builder to marketing automation. 

To learn more about how we can help you grow your eLearning business, you can take a 14-day free trial run period. This trial period will allow you to immerse yourself in the awesome features and opportunities Uteach offers.