Final answer:
Cognitive learning is the ability to acquire knowledge and understanding through mental processes. Rats navigating mazes demonstrate cognitive learning by creating mental representations of the maze.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cognitive learning is the ability to acquire knowledge and understanding through mental processes such as thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving. In the case of rats navigating mazes, cognitive learning refers to their ability to create a mental representation of the maze, known as a cognitive map. This allows the rats to learn the spatial layout of the maze and use that knowledge to navigate efficiently.