Which educational approach aligns with Piaget's theory of cognitive development?

The educational approach that aligns with Piaget's theory of cognitive development is centered around less structured classrooms for discovery learning. Piaget emphasized the importance of active engagement and exploration in the learning process. He believed that children learn best when they can interact with their environment and construct their own understanding through experiences.

In less structured classrooms, children have the freedom to explore concepts at their own pace and in ways that make sense to them. This aligns with Piaget's stages of cognitive development, which highlight how learners progress through levels of understanding as they actively manipulate and experiment with their surroundings. Discovery learning encourages this kind of cognitive engagement, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

This approach also respects the individual differences in children’s cognitive development, as each child may require different amounts of time and different methods to grasp the same concepts. By allowing students to discover knowledge, educators can create an environment that promotes deeper learning and retention.