Which term refers to frameworks that explain how individuals acquire knowledge and develop skills over time?

The term that best refers to frameworks explaining how individuals acquire knowledge and develop skills over time is learning theories. These theories encompass a variety of perspectives on how learning occurs, including cognitive, constructivist, and experiential approaches, among others. Each learning theory offers insights into the processes involved in learning, the role of learners, and how various factors can influence knowledge acquisition and skill development.

Learning theories are essential for educators as they inform instructional strategies, curriculum design, and assessment practices. They provide a foundation for understanding not just what students learn, but how they learn, enabling educators to create more effective learning environments tailored to the needs of their students.

Cognitive structures, developmental models, and behavioral frameworks, while related to learning, serve more specific functions or focus on narrower aspects of the learning process rather than encompassing the broad range of ideas and hypotheses that learning theories do.