Piaget's Cognitive Development

Flashcards based on Piaget's Cognitive Development Theory

Who was Jean Piaget?

A Swiss zoologist who became interested in how humans develop knowledge and is a key figure in developmental psychology and constructivism.

What is Piaget's view on knowledge acquisition?

Knowledge is not innate but constructed through interaction with the environment; it's a set of structures progressively constructed by continuous interaction between the subject and the external world.

What is constructivism, according to Piaget?

The view that a child is active in learning and constructing meaning, not passively receiving information.

What are the four key components of Piaget's theory?

Schema, Equilibrium, Assimilation, and Accommodation.

Define 'Schema' in Piaget's theory.

A cognitive framework or concept that helps organize and interpret information.

Define 'Assimilation' in Piaget's theory.

The process of fitting new information into existing schemas.

Define 'Accommodation' in Piaget's theory.

The process of adjusting existing schemas to incorporate new information.

Define 'Equilibrium' in Piaget's theory.

A state of cognitive balance where new information aligns with existing schemas; disequilibrium prompts cognitive reorganization.

What are Piaget's four stages of cognitive development?

Sensorimotor, Preoperational, Concrete Operational, and Formal Operational.

What age range does the Sensorimotor stage cover?

Birth to 2 years.

What age range does the Preoperational stage cover?

2 to 7 years.

What age range does the Concrete Operational stage cover?

7 to 12 years.

What age range does the Formal Operational stage cover?

12 years onward.

What are some strengths of Piaget's theory?

Enormous influence on developmental psychology, changed views on children's world, inspiration for subsequent research, increased understanding of cognitive development, and practical use in education.

What are some weaknesses of Piaget's theory?

Questionable stage reality, potential for continuous development instead of stages, variability in age ranges for stages, and insufficient consideration of social and cultural effects on cognitive development.