According to which theorist ‘cultural tools’ play an important role in cognitive development of children ?

The correct answer is Lev Vygotsky.

Lev Vygotsky, a prominent Soviet psychologist, proposed the Socio-Cultural Theory of Cognitive Development. According to Vygotsky, cognitive development is a socially mediated process where children acquire cultural values, beliefs, and problem-solving strategies through collaborative dialogues with more knowledgeable members of society.

In his theory, Vygotsky highlighted the essential role of cultural tools in shaping a child's thinking and intellectual development. Cultural tools can be broadly categorized into:

1. Material Tools: Physical objects such as computers, paper, pencils, and counting devices.
2. Psychological (or Symbolic) Tools: Signs, symbols, numbering systems, art, writing, and most importantly, language.

Vygotsky argued that language is the primary cultural tool because it serves as the medium through which culture is transmitted, allowing children to regulate their own thoughts and actions through private speech and ultimately develop higher-order mental functions.

Overview of other options:
- Jean Piaget: Focused on cognitive constructivism, emphasizing that children construct knowledge independently by interacting with their physical environment through schemas, assimilation, and accommodation.
- Albert Bandura: Developed the Social Learning Theory (later Social Cognitive Theory), emphasizing observational learning, modeling, and self-efficacy.
- B.F. Skinner: Known for Operant Conditioning in behaviorism, which explains learning through rewards, reinforcement, and punishment rather than internal cognitive processes.