What is it cognitivism?

For the most part, parents can try their best to explain to their children about various life experiences. Teachers have the same job. In order for the child/student to actually understand what it feels like, that child needs to experience the experience for himself. This is what cognitivism is. It is "a philosophy based on the belief that people actively construct their knowledge of the world through experience.” (McNergney, 125) Every single student has walked in different shoes than one another. Some may have a comfortable, happy life so far and some might have had some hurdles to jump over. Either way, each student is given an opportunity to succeed, no matter what stands in his way. 

Cognitivism is a learning theory which tries to explain why learners approach learning experiences in different manners but are still able to flourish (Oxendine, Robinson, & Willson, 2004). Through this philosophy, students learn best when their minds are actively engaged. Doing an art project, researching citywide recycling efforts, in dissecting a frog are all examples of students being hands-on. The majority of people I have spoken with say that they learn better visually, and when they are able to manipulate something with their hands. Students who are able to ” their hands dirty,” whether it be a science project or a life lesson, are better equipped to learn and understand through their own experiences. You can read up on the beauty of Aruba, you can be told about it, and you can even see pictures of it... but you can't possibly understand it.. until you experience it for yourself.