The study of learning derives from essentially two sources. because learning involves the acquisition of knowledge, the first concerns the nature of knowledge and how we come to know the second source in which modern learning theory is rooted concerns the nature and representation of mental life. references: driscoll, m. p. (2000). psychology of learning for instruction (2nd needham heights, ma: allyn & bacon. driscoll (2000) concludes that "the study of learning derives from essentially two the first concerns the nature of knowledge and how we come to know the second concerns the nature and representation of mental life" (p. 10). references: driscoll, m. p. (2000). psychology of learning for instruction (2nd needham heights, ma: allyn & bacon.