Mediated Learning Theory

Abstract

The growing spread of interest in Feuerstein's theory of mediated learning as an essential prerequisite of adequate cognitive development and the developing worldwide enthusiasm amongst psychologists and special educators for the theory's two practical offspring, the learning potential assessment device (LPAD) and instrumental enrichment, was probably initiated by the publication of two key texts (Feuerstein, Rand and Hoffman, 1979; Feuerstein et al, 1980). Although the Israeli team of researchers and special educators had been developing and disseminating their ideas for some two decades prior to these publications, it is only during the 1980s that mediated learning has really struck a responsive chord amongst those who continue to believe that all children can be taught to be more effective learners, that there is a key to remediating cognitive defects and that psychology has a part to play in helping schools to achieve this.