Piaget's Theory of Cognitive Development

A theory of learning which focuses on the acquisition of knowledge through different stages, being influenced by an individual’s surroundings and interactions with others.

Learners can be at different stages of cognitive development when compared with a peer group, so a teacher would need to adapt delivery and requirements to meet the needs of different learners.

This can be particularly important in adult education, by ensuring an adequate initial assessment and induction of a learner takes place.

This will help to identify what prior knowledge and assistance is needed to ensure they are able to not only develop and achieve the desired learning outcomes, but also gain pleasure and enjoyment from the learning process.