How Children Learn: Foundations of Educational Theory

How do children make sense of the world around them? Understanding the mechanics of young minds is the first step to becoming an effective educator, parent, or instructional designer. This text-based course guides you through the foundational theories of child development and learning psychology, helping you understand how children acquire language, develop logical thinking, and interact with their environment. What you'll learn: - Understand the landmark theories of cognitive development, including Piagetian and Vygotskian perspectives. - Explore how social interaction and cultural context shape a child's learning journey. - Analyze the role of play, active exploration, and language acquisition in early childhood. - Apply modern concepts of growth mindset and executive functioning to support diverse learning needs. - Design supportive learning environments that align with natural developmental milestones. You will start with essential terminology and historical perspectives before moving into modern cognitive science and practical strategies for supporting young learners. This course is designed for beginners, aspiring educators, and parents with no prior background in psychology or education theory. Begin reading today to build a strong foundation in educational theory and help children thrive.