Cognitivism is a learning theory that emerged in the mid-20th century, emphasizing internal mental processes over observable behaviors and focusing on how information is processed, stored, and retrieved. Key theorist Jean Piaget contributed significantly to this field with concepts like schema theory and cognitive development stages, highlighting active and child-centered learning. Practical applications in education include cognitive strategies such as chunking, mnemonics, and retrieval practice to enhance learning outcomes.

1. Cognitivism:
A Deep Dive into Learning Theories
Exploring Mental Processes in Education

2. Historical Background
Cognitivism emerged in the 1950s and 1960s as a
reaction to Behaviorism. Influenced by Linguistics
(Chomsky), Computer Science, and Psychology, the
Cognitive Revolution shifted focus to how information is
processed, stored, and retrieved. Key developments like
the rise of Artificial Intelligence further fueled this
movement.

3. Introduction to Cognitivism
Cognitivism focuses on the inner mental activities – opening the
'black box' of the human mind. It emphasizes the importance of
understanding how learners process and store information.
It is a learning theory that focuses on how information is
received, organized, stored and retrieved by the mind. It
uses the mind as an information processer, like a
computer. Therefore, cognitivism looks beyond observable
behavior, viewing learning as internal mental processes.

4. The Role of Memory in Learning
Sensory Memory: Brief retention of sensory
information.
Working Memory: Active processing with limited
capacity.
Long-term Memory: Unlimited storage for later
retrieval.
Sensory memory → working memory → long-term memory

5. Key Theorist
Jean Piaget (1896 – 1980) was a
psychologist and epistemologist
who focused on child development.
He developed a theory of human
cognitive development (known as
'genetic epistemology') based on
his interest in biology-

6. Core Concepts of Cognitivism
- Schema Theory: How knowledge is organized and stored.
- Information Processing Model: Describes how information moves
through memory systems.
- Cognitive Load: Mental effort used in working memory.
- Input (Attention): receiving information
- Process (Encoding): Translating information into a meaningful form
which can be remembered
- Output (Retrieval): identifying and recalling information for a
particular purpose

9. Piaget's Cognitive
Development Stages

10. Piaget’s Developing Brain

11. Piaget in Practice
- Learning should be child-centered and tailored to meet the
child’s readiness to learn.
- Learning should be active.
- There should be an emphasis on practical activities.
- The teacher is a facilitator rather than an instructor.
- Materials and learning activities should help children to
construct learning and to progress from discovery to
discovery.

12. In language teaching, Cognitivism emphasizes the
importance of understanding the mental processes
involved in learning a new language. Activities such as
pattern recognition and repetition help students
internalize language rules. Teachers can use cognitive
strategies like using visual aids, and providing
opportunities for students to process and apply
language skills in meaningful contexts.
Practical Applications
in the Classroom

13. Five Cognitive Strategies
Here are five cognitive strategies to enhance learning:
• Chunking: Breaking down information into smaller, manageable parts to improve
retention.
• Mnemonics: Using memory aids like acronyms or visual imagery to help recall
information.
• Elaboration: Connecting new information to prior knowledge to deepen
understanding.
• Self-Explanation: Encouraging learners to explain concepts in their own words to
solidify comprehension.
• Retrieval Practice: Repeatedly recalling information to strengthen memory.

14. Metacognition
Metacognition refers to 'thinking about thinking’. It involves
reflecting on one's learning process and about focusing cognitive
resources on relevant information.

15. Cognitivism
in the Digital Age
Digital tools like multimedia, simulations, and
educational games enhance cognitive development.
Adaptive learning technologies personalize learning,
fostering deeper cognitive engagement.

16. Criticisms of Cognitivism
Critics argue that Cognitivism overemphasizes internal
processes, paying little attention to environmental or
affective factors. It has been compared to
Constructivism, which focuses more on learner
experience.

17. Check yourself!
Reflect on how you can apply cognitivist principles in your learning or teaching.
* You may research for more information if you need to.
1. What strategies do you use to organize and store new information?
2. How do you apply metacognition (thinking about your thinking) in your
studies?
3. Which cognitive strategies can be most helpful for language learning?
Take a moment to write down your reflections.

18. Summary

19. References
1. Piaget, J. (1954). The Construction of Reality in the
Child.
2. YouTube Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9uOgYneh8g&pp
=ygUoc2NoZW1hIHRoZW9yeSBhbmQgY29nbml0aXZlIG
xvYWQgdGhlb3J5IA%3D%3D
3. YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/fFZs7I4FxP4