Question

what is Cognitive Theories in child development and what are some positive and negative assumptions about Cognitive Theories?

Answer 1

Some of the famous cognitive theories are Jean Paiget's theory. He is has mentioned 4 sub parts in his theory ranging from sensory motor stage to formal operational stage. This theory has helped the educational section enormously. The concepts such as assimilation, accommodation and equilibrium were scientific rather than activities that were merely observed. It also stated that children can think in abstract concepts 11 years old. The theory focused on learning rather than end product, it also gave message of evaluating level of child development so that suitable tasks can be given to the child. There were criticisms to his theory stating that staged can inter-lap with each other, the effect of culture and other social norms were not considered in his development activities. He didn’t consider social interaction which also helps in cognitive reasoning.

Vygotsky believed that social interactions are instrumental in shaping the child. He stated that learning precedes before development. He stated the child's intelligence can differ according to the culture, environment provided for growth is also instrumental in way child thinks, what they think etc. He lays more emphasis that adults and language play important role in child's development. He coined the concept of ZPD i.e.zone of proximal development which is about what child can achieve independently and what child can achieve with the help of others. His theory is being criticised as it was not tested. It is also being criticised that observation and learning may be more effective ways learning things.