Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) 2026 Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Exam – All-in-One Resource for Exam Success

Cognitive learning emphasizes enhancing understanding of the surrounding world because it focuses on the mental processes involved in learning, such as thinking, understanding, problem-solving, and the ability to learn from experiences. This approach prioritizes the acquisition of knowledge through meaningful relationships and comprehension rather than rote memorization or passive absorption of information. Cognitive learning encourages learners to engage critically with content, analyze information, and apply concepts to real-world situations, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the material and its relevance.

In contrast, the other options reflect different aspects of learning that do not align with the fundamental principles of cognitive learning. For instance, physical activity and movement focus more on kinesthetic learning modalities, while memorization without understanding pertains to superficial learning that lacks depth. Additionally, individual competition among students suggests a more behaviorist approach, where external rewards drive learning, rather than the intrinsic cognitive processes emphasized in cognitive learning theories.