Which approach emphasizes understanding the learner’s cognitive processes?

The cognitivist approach is centered on understanding the mental processes behind learning, focusing on how individuals think, learn, remember, and understand. This approach views learning as an active process where learners are not merely passive recipients of information, but rather, they actively construct their knowledge based on their cognitive processes. Key components of this approach include attention, memory, perception, and problem-solving.

In contrast, the behaviorist approach primarily concentrates on observable behaviors and the influence of the environment on learning, placing less emphasis on internal cognitive processes. The constructivist approach also values learner engagement and the construction of knowledge, but it is distinguished by its focus on social interactions and experiences rather than the cognitive processes alone. The humanistic approach emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization, prioritizing emotional and social aspects of learning over cognitive processes. Thus, selecting the cognitivist approach highlights the importance of understanding how learners process and internalize information through their cognitive development.