What is meant by "cognitive tutoring" in instructional settings?

Cognitive tutoring refers to a personalized instructional approach that tailors the educational experience based on the individual learner's responses and understanding. This method focuses on enhancing students' cognitive skills by providing immediate feedback, guidance, and support that aligns with their specific learning needs. By adapting the instructional material to the learner's current level of knowledge and understanding, cognitive tutoring effectively promotes deeper comprehension and retention of the subject matter.

The emphasis on personalization allows learners to progress at their own pace, ensuring that they receive the reinforcement and assistance necessary to master concepts before moving on to more advanced topics. This contrasts sharply with approaches relying solely on group instruction, which may not account for individual differences in understanding or learning pace. Similarly, cognitive tutoring is distinct from techniques aimed at standardized testing preparation, as it prioritizes individual cognitive development over rote memorization or test-taking strategies. Lastly, generalized instruction without feedback lacks the dynamic interaction that is essential for cognitive tutoring, making it less effective in fostering meaningful learning experiences.