According to Piaget, how can children best understand their world?

Piaget emphasized that children learn best through direct experiences and hands-on actions, which is central to his theory of cognitive development. He believed that children actively construct their understanding of the world by engaging directly with their environment. This engagement allows them to explore, manipulate objects, and solve problems, leading to meaningful learning experiences.

Direct experiences involve children experimenting, observing outcomes, and reflecting on their activities, which are crucial processes in developing their cognitive abilities. Through play and exploration, children not only learn concepts but also undergo essential mental operations—for example, assimilation and accommodation—that are fundamental to Piaget's theory.

In contrast, learning through observation alone does not involve the active participation that Piaget deemed necessary for deep understanding. Similarly, passive learning does not engage children actively in the learning process, which limits their opportunities to explore and make sense of their experiences. Virtual simulations, while beneficial in some contexts, cannot replace the rich, tangible experiences that come from interacting with the real world. Therefore, direct experiences and actions are considered the most effective means for children to grasp and understand their environment, aligning with Piaget's foundational concepts.