Which approach focuses on the active role of learners in constructing their own understanding?

The cognitive constructivism approach emphasizes the active role of learners in constructing their own understanding. This educational philosophy posits that learning occurs as students engage with content, make connections to their prior knowledge, and actively process information. Learners are seen as individuals who engage in problem-solving and critical thinking, which helps them build their own conceptual frameworks. The focus is on how students create meaning through their experiences, interactions, and reflections, which is central to effective learning.

In contrast, other approaches do not prioritize the learner's active engagement to the same extent. The behaviorist approach centers around observable behaviors and the external stimuli that influence learning, often neglecting the inner mental processes involved. The socio-cultural approach emphasizes the role of social interactions and cultural context in learning, while the innatist approach focuses on the innate capabilities of learners, suggesting that certain elements of knowledge are preordained rather than constructed through individual experience. Thus, while these approaches contribute valuable insights into the learning process, cognitive constructivism uniquely highlights the importance of learners actively shaping their own understanding.