Cognitive Development Study Guide (Piaget & Vygotsky)

Flashcards created to review key concepts from the Cognitive Development study guide focusing on the theories of Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky.

Cognitive Development Theory

A theory by Jean Piaget which states that children actively construct their understanding of the world through experience.

Sensorimotor Stage

The first stage of Piaget’s cognitive development theory, occurring from birth to 2 years, where infants learn through their senses and actions.

Object Permanence

The understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, developed in the sensorimotor stage.

Preoperational Stage

The second stage of Piaget’s cognitive development theory, occurring from ages 2 to 6, characterized by egocentric and illogical thinking.

Concrete Operational Stage

The third stage of Piaget’s cognitive development theory, occurring from ages 7 to 11, where logical thinking develops for concrete experiences.

Formal Operational Stage

The fourth stage of Piaget’s cognitive development theory, beginning at age 12, where abstract thinking and hypothetical reasoning develop.

Schema

A mental framework used to understand the world, such as a child’s 'dog' schema that includes all furry animals.

Equilibrium

The balance between existing knowledge and new experiences as described in Piaget's theory.

Disequilibrium

The confusion experienced when new information does not fit old schemas.

Assimilation

The process of fitting new experiences into existing schemas.

Accommodation

The process of adjusting schemas to include new experiences.

Sociocultural Theory

A theory by Lev Vygotsky that emphasizes learning through social interaction and guidance.

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

The learning zone between what a child can do independently and what they can do with help.

Scaffolding

Temporary support provided to help a child master new skills within their ZPD.

Individual Exploration

The focus of Piaget’s approach to learning where children learn independently.

Social Interaction

The focus of Vygotsky’s approach to learning where knowledge is gained through interaction with others.

Continous Development

The perspective held by Vygotsky that development occurs over time and is a gradual process.

Language Role in Learning

According to Piaget, language follows cognitive growth; according to Vygotsky, language shapes cognitive growth.