The Cognitive Approach to Lesson Planning
What is Cognitivism and How can it be Utilized in Teaching
May 8, 2009
In terms of teaching, cognitivism, is the opposite of the old-fashioned highly-instructed lessons consisting of rote-learning and copying. It is the more liberal “find out for yourself” approach.
What is the Cognitivist Approach?
Cognitivism means “thought process.” This can mean comprehension, reasoning, interpreting, analysing and synthesising. The cognitivist asks the question “why?” in terms of behaviour and in learning. This promotes independent thinking.
Methods of Teaching
Broadly speaking, two approaches can be taken in teaching practice.
- Behaviourist approach
- Cognitive approach
The Behaviourist method is teacher-centred. In other words, the teacher delivers structured lessons that the pupils must follow. Strategies in this camp include, lectures, copying notes, learning by rote and watching demonstrations.
The Cognitivist method is student-centred. In other words, the students find out for themselves in a self-directed way. Strategies include case studies, research, discussions, self-assessment and presentations.
The two are seen as opposites, but every teacher must consider which approach to use in lessons and how to use each approach appropriately. This will also serve to maintain a good teacher pupil relationship.
How to Change Negative Behaviour
Cognitivism, in terms of behaviour, strives to understand the reasons behind a particular behavioural pattern in order to possibly change it. This might prevent future problems such as exclusion. Cognitive therapists endeavour to change the negative thought processes of candidates by critical thinking and creating new thought pathways. This involves the reasoning of the higher brain, which is in stark contrast to the Behaviourist view, which is based on the notion that behaviour is learned without the involvement of thought.
Promoting Independent Learning
The philosopher and scientist, Jean Piaget first explored the cognitive approach. He observed his own children and came to the belief that people go through seminal stages of mental development from birth, which is known as “maturation.” He believed that all people reach a new stage of development and ability at similar age. This model became known as “Stages of Cognitive Development.” The Formal Operational Stage is the final stage, reached at around age eleven. At this point, Piaget believed that children are capable of adult thought. They can think in the abstract, reason, see things from a different point of view and think critically. In reality, everyone reaches each stage at a different age.
Promoting Critical Thinking in the Classroom
The cognitive approach encourages the “find out for yourself” approach after task-setting. The learner is in control of their learning and moves on to the next level in a self-directed way. The learning experience is different for each learner. The Montessori School practices this method in the belief that emotional factors and personal growth must be held in the highest value if the learners are to develop themselves in their learning.
Which Teaching Strategies to Use
A highly directed approach to teaching might be a logical starting place for a programme of study, for the concrete is always a good place to begin. A more cognitive approach could be introduced with progression. However, less able learners and young children might benefit best from a more Behaviourist approach. The teacher must assess each student independently and make an informed decision on how to apply each approach and in what quantities.
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