Which cognitive theory emphasizes the role of active engagement in learning?

Constructivism emphasizes the role of active engagement in learning by asserting that learners build their understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflecting on those experiences. This theory posits that learning is not a passive process; instead, it involves the learner actively interacting with their environment, negotiating meaning, and constructing their own understanding based on prior knowledge and experiences.

In a constructivist approach, educators facilitate this process by providing opportunities for students to engage in hands-on activities, collaborative learning, and problem-solving tasks that encourage them to explore concepts and develop their understanding. This active engagement promotes deeper learning, critical thinking, and the ability to apply knowledge in new contexts.

The other theories mentioned do not prioritize active engagement in the same way. Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and the effects of reinforcement and punishment, rather than the internal thought processes of learners. Humanism emphasizes personal growth and emotional well-being but does not specifically address the active construction of knowledge as articulated in constructivism. Connectivism centers on the role of social and technology networks in learning but does not exclusively focus on the individual learner's active engagement in the construction of understanding.