Q. 1. Which theory of cognitive development do you most agree with? Why?
I mostly agree with Piaget's theory of cognitive development. This is because unlike other cognitive development theories, Piaget’s theory, through the four stages of development (sensory motor, preoperational, concrete operational mastery and formal operational stage) demonstrates, clearly, that cognitive capacities of children are different from those of adults. Thus, the theory aids in explaining why children should be taught different things at different ages.
Q.2. How does each theory of cognitive development treat the role of social and cultural factors?
Piaget’s theory suggests that reasoning in all cognitive domains transcends social and cultural factors, as it developed through universal stages. Conversely, Vygotsky’s theory highly regards the role of social and cultural factors, such as language, in explaining cognitive development. Vygotsky argues that cognitive development gets shaped by factors in the social world. Similarly, the information processing theory argues that aspects of the environment, such as context and culture, contribute to the bit by bit learning, which contributes to cognitive development.
Q.4.Which theory gives the most emphasis to culture?
Vygotsky’s theory of cognitive development gives more emphasis on culture as the entire theory centers on the role of the social environment and culture in cognition.
Q.5. If you were a teacher, how would you apply each of the three theories of cognitive development?
If I were a teacher, I would use Piaget’s theory in developing a curriculum that contains material that matches the developmental levels of children. Besides, I would offer a supportive environment for learning, and use concrete props and visual aids, for teaching. I would, also, apply Vygotsky’s theory of cognitive development by letting students work with partners, or in small groups, while giving learners room for discussion after presenting questions. Lastly, I would apply the information processing theory though peer tutoring, use of memory games and teaching in small groups. Peer tutoring boosts efficiency in information processing. Similarly, use of memory games and teaching in small groups enable learners to transmit information from short term to long term memory.
