Cognitive and humanist perspectives are two different approaches to understanding learning.
- Cognitive perspective: The cognitive perspective focuses on how learners process information and make meaning from their experiences. This perspective emphasizes the importance of mental processes such as attention, perception, memory, and problem-solving in learning. According to this perspective, learners are active participants in the learning process and construct their understanding of the world based on their experiences and interactions with their environment. Cognitive psychologists have identified a range of learning strategies and techniques that can help learners effectively process information and improve their understanding of the material.
- Humanist perspective: The humanist perspective focuses on the individual learner and their unique experiences and perspectives. According to this perspective, learners have the innate desire to learn and grow, and their learning is influenced by their personal values, beliefs, and experiences. The humanist perspective emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive learning environment that encourages creativity, exploration, and self-expression. This perspective also emphasizes the importance of human relationships, empathy, and understanding in the learning process.
While the cognitive perspective focuses on the cognitive processes involved in learning, the humanist perspective emphasizes the emotional and interpersonal aspects of learning. Both perspectives offer important insights into how learners make meaning from their experiences and how educators can effectively support the learning process. A comprehensive understanding of learning involves incorporating elements from both perspectives.
