Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

Which of the following is a tenet of cognitivism?

1. Learning is based solely on external stimuli

2. Prior knowledge should be disregarded

3. Internal processes that affect learning should be considered

4. Information need not capture students' attention

The correct answer is: Internal processes that affect learning should be considered

The correct answer emphasizes that internal processes affecting learning are crucial to understanding how individuals acquire knowledge. Cognitivism focuses on the mental processes involved in learning, such as perception, memory, and problem-solving, and recognizes that these internal processes play a significant role in how learners interpret and integrate information. By considering these internal processes, educators can tailor their teaching strategies to better support students' learning, encouraging them to engage with content meaningfully and build on their prior knowledge. This perspective contrasts sharply with the notions in the other options, which overlook the importance of mental engagement and the active role learners take in processing information.