Cognitivism is a learning theory that emphasizes the role of mental processes in understanding how people learn. It suggests that the mind functions like a computer, processing information through various stages, including perception, memory, and problem-solving. This approach focuses on how learners actively construct knowledge by organizing and interpreting information rather than passively absorbing it. Key figures in cognitivism include Jean Piaget and Jerome Bruner, who contributed to our understanding of cognitive development and instructional strategies. This theory contrasts with behaviorism, which focuses primarily on observable behaviors and external stimuli. Cognitivism has influenced educational practices by promoting techniques that enhance critical thinking and understanding.