When are cognitive goals particularly important to focus on according to learning principles?

Focusing on cognitive goals is particularly important when there is a lack of knowledge among students. This aligns with the foundational principles of learning, where an initial understanding is crucial for building more advanced skills and knowledge. Cognitive goals help clarify what students need to learn and understand, guiding them through concepts and information that they are not yet familiar with.

When students lack foundational knowledge, cognitive goals can provide direction for both instruction and assessment, ensuring that learning is targeted and effective. This approach facilitates the acquisition of new information, enabling students to create connections between existing knowledge and new concepts. Ensuring that students have the necessary cognitive scaffolding is essential for promoting deeper understanding and retention, ultimately supporting their overall educational growth.