In terms of cognitive development, students learn when there is a conflict between what they think and new information that they receive.

In terms of cognitive development, students learn when there is a conflict between what they think and new information that they receive.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (A)

Cognitive development is propelled when new information clashes with what a student already thinks. That clash creates disequilibrium, a motivational state that drives accommodation and reorganization of their mental schemas. When learners adjust their thinking to resolve the conflict, learning takes place and development progresses. So the statement is true. If information fits neatly with what they already believe, learning can still happen, but the most powerful driver in this view is the disequilibrium produced by the mismatch between belief and new data.

Cognitive development is propelled when new information clashes with what a student already thinks. That clash creates disequilibrium, a motivational state that drives accommodation and reorganization of their mental schemas. When learners adjust their thinking to resolve the conflict, learning takes place and development progresses. So the statement is true. If information fits neatly with what they already believe, learning can still happen, but the most powerful driver in this view is the disequilibrium produced by the mismatch between belief and new data.