Cognitive constructivism is a learning theory that suggests that knowledge is actively constructed by learners based on their existing cognitive structures. It challenges the idea that learners passively absorb knowledge and instead proposes that learners construct new knowledge on top of their pre-existing knowledge. Key features of cognitive constructivism include:

• Active construction of knowledge: Learners actively construct knowledge based on their existing cognitive structures.

• Prior knowledge: Learners prior knowledge and experiences are unique to them and should be considered when designing learning experiences.

• Motivation: Cognitive constructivism sees motivation as largely intrinsic, with successful learning requiring a major personal investment on the part of the learner.

• Individuality: Cognitive constructivism recognizes that everybody learns differently and that each learner has to construct new knowledge on top of their existing knowledge.

Cognitive constructivism is different from behaviorist learning theory, which suggests that learners are motivated by extrinsic factors such as rewards and punishment. Instead, cognitive constructivism emphasizes the importance of learners prior knowledge and experiences in constructing new knowledge. Teachers who use cognitive constructivism encourage students to think for themselves and come up with their own ideas, creating a collaborative problem-solving environment where students become active participants in their own learning.