COGNITIVISM
By Cassie Trosvig
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WHAT IS COGNITIVISM?
A learning theory that came into use in the 1950’s.
The belief that the way people think impacts their
behavior and cannot be a behavior in itself.
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WHAT IS COGNITIVISM?
 A theory that attempts to answer how and why people learn
 Cognitivism follows the Behaviorist Theory, but focuses
more on what is going on in the mind.
KEY FIGURES
Kurt Lewin
Lewin developed field theory that learning is result of
changes in cognitive structure, one’s sense of belonging,
and gain in muscle control.
KEY FIGURES
Jean Piaget
Piaget theorized that there are four stages of cognitive
development: Sensorimotor, Preoperational, Concrete
Operational, and Formal Operational.
KEY FIGURES
Evaluation
Synthesis
Analysis
Application
Comprehension
Knowledge
Benjamin Bloom
Bloom identified six levels within the cognitive domain, now
known as Bloom’s Taxonomy.
COGNITIVISM IN THE
CLASSROOM
 Cognitivism works under the assumption that students learn
best when they are engaged and involved.
 This learning theory can be used effectively in the
classroom when students are engaged in realistic
experiences, discussing content, and experimenting.
COGNITIVISM IN THE
CLASSROOM
Traditional Classroom
VS.
Cognitivism Classroom
Traditional Classroom
Cognitivism Classroom
Students work primarily alone.
Students work mostly in groups.
Teacher’s role is directive, rooted
in authority.
Teacher’s role is interactive,
rooted in negotiation.
Learning is based on repetition.
Learning is interactive, building
on what the student already
knows.
MY CLASSROOM
 In my future classroom, I plan to use Cognitivism in many
ways. Here are a few examples:
• Using graphic organizers and concept maps to incorporate
pictures, text, sound bytes, and video clips.
• Using Microsoft Word to work together as a class to
summarize information we have just learned.
MY CLASSROOM
 In my classroom, I will also encourage my students to learn
from each other. I will strive to act as a guide in learning and
work to always adapt my curriculum to my students’ needs.
 I will take the time to understand each of my students, and
create a setting that promotes learning.
SOURCES USED
 Wikipedia
 Cognitivism and Constructivism
 Picture of Kurt Lewin
 Textbook: Meece, J. L., & Daniels, D. H. (2007). Child and adolescent development for educators. (3 ed.).
Boston: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages.
 My personal notes that I took during my Child and Adolescent Development Class (Summer 2011)