Book excerpt: Rather than simply outlining the classical and modern theories of learning, this widely adopted text brings the material to life through case studies that engage students in debates about what really happens in classrooms. Students are encouraged to test the strengths and weaknesses of each theory so that, ultimately, they will learn to formulate their own philosophies of teaching and learning. The newFifth EditionofPerspectives on Learningfeatures: A discussion of common sense and learning theories. A new chapter on Transfer of Learning. Consideration of recent developments in brain science. A thoroughly updated list of Recommendations for Further Reading. Perspectives on Learningis one of the five books in the highly regarded Teachers College PressThinking About Education Series,now in its Fifth Edition. All of the books in this series are designed to help pre- and in-service teachers bridge the gap between theory and practice. D. C. Phillipsis Professor of Education and Philosophy Emeritus, School of Education at Stanford University.Jonas F. Soltisis William Heard Kilpatrick Professor Emeritus of Philosophy and Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. “A great little book packed with conceptual contrasts and rich classroom vignettes. The best resource I’ve found for teaching about theories of learning in a liberal arts college.” —Jack Dougherty, Trinity College, Hartford, CT “A well-written and readable book. Phillips and Soltis should be commended for bringing together these various perspectives on learning that can be used by both pre-service and in-service teachers. The case studies presented help illustrate the theories and should facilitate active class discussions.” —The Professional Educator