What does constructivism reject regarding learning mechanisms?
Stimulus-response and the view of the person as passive in development
Constructivism emphasizes active participation in learning rather than simple responses to stimuli.
What claim do nativists make that constructivism rejects?
That knowledge is innate
Nativists believe that individuals are born with certain knowledge, which constructivism disputes.
How does constructivism view the role of a child in learning?
The child actively constructs a model of the world
This means children are not just passive recipients of information.
What are the two mechanisms that lead to change in Piaget’s theory?
- Assimilation
- Accommodation
Define assimilation in the context of Piaget’s stages of cognitive development.
The process of fitting reality into one’s current cognitive organization/schema
Example: Calling a donkey a horse due to existing schema.
Define accommodation in Piaget’s theory.
Adjustment to one’s cognitive organization/schema resulting from reality demands
Example: Recognizing that donkeys are different from horses despite similarities.
What is achieved when assimilation and accommodation are in balance?
Equilibrium
Equilibrium is a state where a child’s understanding of the world is stable.
What drives development according to Piaget?
The internal state of the child
This suggests that cognitive development is an intrinsic process.
What is Vygotsky’s view on the relationship between thought and language?
Language is the basis of thought
Vygotsky argues that understanding and exchange lead to cognitive development.
What does Vygotsky emphasize as important in shaping cognition?
Individual cognition and culture
This highlights the importance of social context in learning.
How does knowledge develop according to Vygotsky?
As a result of social interaction
Social interactions with others contribute to cognitive growth.
What is Vygotsky’s most influential idea?
Zone of proximal development
This concept describes the range of tasks that a child can perform with guidance.
How does Vygotsky view cognition?
As a collaborative process between the child and their community
This includes interactions with caretakers, teachers, and siblings.
