Which psychologist is closely associated with the concept of cognitive development?

The concept of cognitive development is most closely associated with Jean Piaget, who developed a comprehensive theory outlining the stages through which children's thinking evolves as they interact with the world. Piaget proposed that cognitive development occurs in four key stages: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational. Each stage represents a different way of thinking and understanding the world, emphasizing that children actively construct their knowledge through experiences and interactions.

Piaget's work highlighted the importance of maturation and the role of the environment in cognitive growth, suggesting that children move through these stages at their own pace. This developmental perspective has had a profound impact on education, shaping instructional practices that recognize the varying levels of cognitive capabilities among learners.

While other psychologists like Vygotsky also contributed important ideas about cognitive development, particularly emphasizing social interaction and cultural tools in learning, Piaget's framework specifically delineates the progression of cognitive abilities, making him the primary figure associated with the concept of cognitive development itself.