Which theory emphasizes the importance of social context in learning?

The emphasis on social context in learning is a core principle of social constructivism. This theory posits that knowledge is constructed through social interactions and cultural practices. Social constructivists argue that learning occurs in a social context and that collaboration with others can enhance understanding. The theory highlights that individuals learn from each other, and that social, cultural, and historical contexts fundamentally shape the development of knowledge.

By acknowledging the influence of social interactions, social constructivism underscores the role of collaborative dialogue and shared experiences in the learning process. This stands in contrast to other theories, such as behaviorism, which focuses primarily on observable behaviors and external stimuli, and cognitivism, which centers on mental processes but does not specifically address the social dimensions of learning. Constructivism, while acknowledging the importance of individual experiences, does not explicitly highlight the social aspect as strongly as social constructivism does.