C&L Unit 4 : Higher Order Mental Processes

Cognition & Learning

Higher Order Thinking (HOT)

Complex cognitive processes involving analysis, evaluation, and creation beyond memorization.

Lower Order Thinking (LOT)

Basic thinking processes such as remembering and understanding information.

Convergent Thinking

Thinking that narrows options to a single, correct solution.

Divergent Thinking

Creative thinking that generates many possible solutions or ideas.

Critical Thinking

The ability to analyze and evaluate information objectively to form a reasoned judgment.

Creative Thinking

The process of generating new and original ideas, perspectives, or solutions.

Triarchic Theory of Intelligence

Sternberg’s theory consisting of analytical (componential), creative (experiential), and practical (contextual) intelligence.

Componential Intelligence

Analytical thinking; ability to plan, monitor, and solve problems.

Experiential Intelligence

Creative thinking; ability to adapt to new experiences and combine knowledge in original ways.

Contextual Intelligence

Practical thinking; ability to adapt, select, or shape the environment to meet goals.

Metacomponents

High-level executive functions such as planning, monitoring, and evaluating cognition.

Performance Components

Processes that carry out instructions, such as problem-solving actions.

Knowledge Acquisition Components

Processes involved in learning new information: encoding, combining, and comparing.

Piaget’s HOT

Formal operational thought characterized by abstract, logical reasoning that emerges in adolescence.

Vygotsky’s HOT

Higher thought develops through social interaction, self-regulation, and use of symbols (e.g. language).

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

The range between what a learner can do independently and with guidance.

Novice–Expert Approach

A cognitive development perspective that contrasts expert and novice problem-solving strategies.

Expertise Dimensions

Characteristics such as domain-specific knowledge, strategic thinking, and meaningful perception.

Problem Solving

The mental process of finding solutions to obstacles using current and new knowledge.

Types of Problems (Greeno)

Comprehension (understanding), Transformation (changing), Arrangement (organizing).

Frontal Lobes

Brain region associated with complex cognitive functions like planning, reasoning, and decision-making.

Creative Solution Criteria

According to Cropley (2001): Novelty, Effectiveness, and Ethicality.

Bloom’s Taxonomy (Revised)

A hierarchy of cognitive skills: Remember, Understand, Apply, Analyze, Evaluate, Create.