**3.3 Learning theories**

Regardless of whether learners learn individually or in groups, distance or with presenting, it is widely known that individuals learn differently. Individual learners think and perceive differently. Therefore, knowing learning theories for getting a better understanding of distance learning is necessary. Through studying various schools of thought, the cognitive constructivist theory and social constructivist theory can be regarded as the foundation of effective learning.

Constructivist theory recognizes the learners as an active individual. The learner is central to learning and the instructor has the role of a facilitator and counselor. The learner should be open to form knowledge himself rather than acquire it through education. Constructivism teachers believe in an educational programming that is based on cooperative and group learning and reinforces active learning in the learner. Active learning, cooperation and working in the group are also important features of learning through technology. As a result, combining these features in distance learning determines an effective learning environment mentioned in this study.
