Who developed the theory of cognitive development that includes stages such as the sensorimotor and preoperational stages?

The theory of cognitive development that includes the sensorimotor and preoperational stages was developed by Jean Piaget. His theory outlines how children's thinking evolves in distinct stages as they grow. The sensorimotor stage, which occurs from birth to about 2 years, involves learning through sensory experiences and manipulating objects. The preoperational stage, from around 2 to 7 years, is characterized by the development of language and symbolic thinking, but with limitations like egocentrism and difficulty understanding conservation.

Piaget emphasized that children actively construct their understanding of the world through interacting with their environment, which marked a significant departure from earlier theories that viewed children as passive recipients of knowledge. His approach has influenced a range of educational practices and has been foundational in child development studies. Thus, Piaget is widely recognized for his contributions to understanding how children learn and think.