1. Cognitive Learning Theory
by Alissa, Joni and Slavik

2. history Cognitive Learning Theory
Cognitive theory is based on a number of theorists’ contributions
Edward Chase Tolman ( ) [theory of sign learning], Jean Piaget ( ) [theory of individual cognitive development], Lev Vygotsky ( ) [theory of social cognitive growth], Jerome Bruner ( ) [cognitive constructivist learning theory], David Ausubel ( ) [advance organizer theory], Gestalt psychologists out of Germany (Wertheimer, Kohler, Koffka, Lewin) amongst other psychologists were instrumental in contributing to the development of the cognitive learning theories as we know them today.

3. basics Cognitive Learning Theory
Please watch a short video from Jerome Bruner ( ) [cognitive constructivist learning theory] & David Ausubel ( ) [advance organizer theory].
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4. basics Cognitive Learning Theory
Cognitive learning theories focus primarily on how knowledge is:
acquired, processed, stored, retrieved, and activated
by the learner during the different phases of the learning process.
- learning as an active process involving the acquisition or reorganization of the cognitive structures through which humans process and store information and
- the learner as an active participant in the process of knowledge acquisition and integration.

5. basics Cognitive Learning Theory
Knowledge acquisition is a mental activity involving internal coding and structuring by the learner where learning happens best under conditions that are aligned with human cognitive architecture.
Main focus of cognitive teaching/learning approach is on making knowledge meaningful and helping learners organize and relate new information to prior knowledge in memory. Instruction should be based on a student’s existing mental structures or schema for learning to be effective.

6. basics Cognitive Learning Theory
Please watch a short video on Lady Gaga’s contribution to Cognitive Learning Theory
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7. basics Cognitive Learning Theory
Learning is not just a sit down and listen pathway. It is a process of thinking that influenced by past and present surroundings and experiences. As educators, we must look at the learned behaviors of our students, the learning environment we are providing, the environment they are accustomed to outside of our classroom, and their personal needs and ideals.

8. references Cognitive Learning Theory
Merriam, S. B., Caffarella, R. S., & Baumgartner, L. M. (2007). Learning in adulthood: A comprehensive guide (3rd.). San Francisco: Josey-Bass.
Yilmaz, K. (2011). The cognitive perspective on learning: Its theoretical underpinnings and implications for classroom practices. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas , 84(5), doi: /