FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which example represents cognitive learning theory in practice?

1. Providing immediate feedback to students

2. Using graphic organizers to enhance understanding

3. Using a manipulative to teach math

4. Encouraging self-discovery through exploration

The correct answer is: Using a manipulative to teach math

Cognitive learning theory focuses on the internal processes involved in learning, particularly how individuals process, store, and retrieve information. It emphasizes understanding and mental engagement rather than just rote memorization or direct instruction. The use of manipulatives in teaching math aligns well with cognitive learning theory as it facilitates the construction of knowledge through hands-on experience, allowing students to visualize abstract concepts. This tactile engagement helps learners form connections in their minds between the manipulative and the mathematical principles they represent, fostering deeper understanding and retention. The hands-on experience encourages students to think critically about the concepts they are working with, helping solidify their cognitive development. Immediate feedback, graphic organizers, and encouragement of self-discovery are all valid instructional strategies, but they align more closely with other instructional approaches or theories. While immediate feedback helps students adjust their learning strategies, graphic organizers primarily assist in organizing information visually, and self-discovery focuses on experiential learning rather than cognitive processing specifically. Each of these strategies can support learning but do not encapsulate the core aspect of cognitive learning theory to the extent that using manipulatives does.