Cognitive Learning Theory in Educational Technology

 The father of Cognitive theory was a Swiss psychologist and genetic epistemologist Jean Piaget. He is known for his theory of cognitive development that looked at how children develop intellectually throughout the course of childhood. He believed knowledge is something that is actively constructed by learners based on their existing cognitive structures. In his theory of cognitive development, Jean Piaget proposed that humans progress through four developmental stages: the sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational stages.

Cognitive Learning Theory is about understanding how the human mind works while people learn. The theory focuses on how information is processed by the brain, and how learning occurs through that internal processing of information. This theory deals with, in particular, how people perceive and remember information, solve problems and ultimately learn. Educators use cognitive learning strategies all over the world in the classroom is to ask questions to help students refine their thinking and recognize where they may be wrong, by asking students about their understanding about what is taught, encouraging discussions, help students explore etc.

Cognitivist in educational technology can be found in online games and reinforcement activities, such as sorting games, puzzles, and flashcards. Quizlet is an online resource which is a great example for Cognitive learning theory in educational technology.