Theorists
He emphasized learning by doing. He believed education should be connected to real life and democracy, not just memorization. His ideas are the basis of experiential and progressive education.
John Dewey
This theory argues that learners actively build their own understanding. Instead of just receiving information, students learn by exploring, questioning, and connecting ideas.
Constructivism
A pyramid of human needs that must be met in order:
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
What age does the brain fully develop (Prefrontal Cortex included)?
Age 25
At what age can you administer an IQ test?
Age 6
She developed a child-centered approach where students learn independently using hands-on materials. Her method is still widely used in a specific type of schools worldwide.
Marie Montessori
This theory says learning is based on stimulus and response. Students learn through reinforcement (rewards/punishments).
Behaviorism
Explains how different layers of environment shape development:
Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory
What age range is the "foundation for learning" built?
Ages 2-7
What does O.C.E.A.N stand for?
Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism
He focused on how children develop cognitively. He proposed stages of development, showing that kids think differently at different ages which hugely influencing curriculum design.
Jean Piaget
This theory emphasizes the whole student. It focuses on personal growth, motivation, and emotional well-being, not just academics.
Humanism
How thinking develops with age:
Piaget's Stages of Cognitive Development
What age does object permanence develop?
8-12 months
What is the difference between prosocial and antisocial behaviors?
Prosocial - actions that benefits others
Antisocial - actions that harm others or break social rules
He argued that learning is social. His concept of the “Zone of Proximal Development” explains how students learn best with guidance and collaboration.
Lev Vygotsky
This expands on constructivism by emphasizing social interaction. Learning happens best through collaboration, discussion, and guidance (like teachers or peers helping).
Social Constructivism
Learning happens through social interaction and culture:
Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory
What age does kids develop fairness?
Ages 8-12
What does each side of the brain do?
Left Side - logic and language
Right Side - creativity and visual/emotional processing
He critiqued traditional “banking” education (teachers depositing knowledge). He promoted critical thinking and dialogue, especially in empowering marginalized groups.
Paulo Freire
This theory focuses on how the mind processes information. It looks at memory, thinking, and problem-solving (like organizing lessons to match how the brain learns).
Cognitivism
Behavior is shaped by consequences:
Skinner's Theory of Operant Conditioning
What age range does cognitive ability becomes unchanged?
late teens, early 20s
What is the purpose of the axons myelination?
helps strengthen and speed up brain connections