PSYC 331 Ch 1: Theories and Research

Why important understand development?

To know how tiny humans grow into big humans, learn how brains work and change, help kid grow strong and smart. Example: Rory grow up smart, go to school.

What is developmental milestone?

Key skills expected at certain ages. Example: Rory learn to walk, talk, like baby steps.

What is hypothesis?

Proposed explanation with small proof. Example: Say Rory study hard; she get good grades.

What are variables?

Things that can change. Example: Weather, mood, snacks.

Difference between correlation and causation?

Correlation mean two things related; causation mean one cause other. Example: Rory study, she get good grades (causation). Rory drink coffee, she study (correlation).

What is Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)?

Tasks kid can do with help, not alone. Example: Rory need help with homework from Lorelai.

What is scaffolding?

Support for learning and big goals. Example: Lorelai help Rory find books.

What are schemas?

Mental boxes to keep info. Example: Rory think Yale = smart.

What is assimilation?

Fit new info into old boxes. Example: Rory fit new history facts into school knowledge.

What is accommodation?

Change boxes to fit new info. Example: Rory learn new book rules.

What is equilibrium?

Balance between fitting new stuff and changing boxes. Example: Rory balance reading and hanging out.

What are study measures?

Ways to study kids. Example: Watch kids, ask questions, test stuff.

What is cross-sectional study?

Look at different kids at same time. Example: Check all kids in town.

What is longitudinal study?

Follow same kids for long time. Example: Watch Rory from baby to grown up.

What is microgenetic study?

Watch kids closely for short time. Example: Watch Rory study for week.

What was John Locke's view?

Kids like blank slates, shaped by life. Example: Rory learn from life around her.

What did Rousseau believe?

Kids born good, world make them bad. Example: Rory good kid, but face school problems.

What was Darwin's idea?

Kids grow and change like animals. Example: Rory adapt to school like nature.

What themes in development?

Nature vs nurture, continuity vs discontinuity, universal vs specific. Example: Rory learn, but also have friends.

What nature vs nurture debate?

Talk about genes or world affect kids more. Example: Rory smart from mom or school?

What is continuity vs discontinuity?

Talk about slow change or stages. Example: Rory grow day by day or big jumps.

What is universal vs context-specific?

Same for all kids or different by culture. Example: Rory and friends all different.