Cognitivism

Definition

Cognitivism is a learning theory that focuses on the internal processes involved in learning, emphasizing the role of mental activities such as thinking, memory, problem-solving, and understanding. It shifts the focus from observable behaviors to the cognitive processes that influence how learners acquire, process, and store information. This theory suggests that knowledge is constructed through cognitive processes, making it essential to understand how learners think and learn in order to develop effective educational practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cognitivism emerged as a response to behaviorism, which focused primarily on observable behaviors rather than internal thought processes.
2. Key figures in cognitivism include Jean Piaget, who studied cognitive development in children, and Jerome Bruner, who emphasized the importance of understanding how people think.
3. Cognitivism highlights the importance of prior knowledge and experiences in influencing how new information is processed and understood.
4. Instructional strategies informed by cognitivism often include techniques such as scaffolding, concept mapping, and encouraging self-regulated learning.
5. Cognitive load theory, developed by John Sweller, is a significant aspect of cognitivism that examines how information presentation can affect learning efficiency.

Review Questions

• How does cognitivism differ from behaviorism in its approach to understanding learning?
  • Cognitivism differs from behaviorism by emphasizing internal mental processes rather than solely focusing on observable behaviors. While behaviorism looks at how external stimuli can influence responses, cognitivism considers how learners actively process information through thinking, memory, and problem-solving. This shift allows educators to design instruction that aligns more closely with how students naturally learn and understand material.
• Discuss how metacognition is an essential component of cognitivism and its impact on student learning.
  • Metacognition is a vital aspect of cognitivism as it involves learners' awareness of their own cognitive processes. This awareness enables students to monitor their understanding and adapt their learning strategies accordingly. By fostering metacognitive skills, educators can help students become more effective learners who can assess their comprehension and adjust their approaches to studying or problem-solving, leading to improved academic performance.
• Evaluate the implications of schema theory within the framework of cognitivism for curriculum development.
  • Schema theory plays a crucial role within cognitivism by highlighting how prior knowledge influences learning. In curriculum development, this means educators need to consider students' existing schemas when introducing new concepts. By linking new information to what learners already know, curriculum designers can enhance understanding and retention. This approach promotes deeper learning and allows for a more personalized educational experience that acknowledges diverse backgrounds and learning styles.

Related terms

Constructivism: A learning theory that posits that learners actively construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflection.

Metacognition: The awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes, enabling learners to monitor and control their learning strategies.

Schema Theory: A theory that describes how information is organized and stored in the mind, emphasizing the role of mental structures or schemas in understanding and processing new information.