10-6-08 Chapter 2: Cognitive & Linguistic Development

What?

Cognitive development is the process by which people learn and develop mentally. We studied a few theorists in depth (Piaget & Vygotsky) and about their views and beliefs on cognitive development. I learned a lot about the differences between the two and their theories. I learned that Piaget focused mainly on children teaching themselves and growning and developing through exploration. Vygotsky believed that children learned best through adult instruction and example. I really liked that Vygotsky was such a believer in play for children. I remember growing up always playing "school" with my friends, and now I am going to school to become an educator. Having children play gives them an opportunity to experience what they believe it would be like to be someone or something else. It's also interesting to see children when they pretend to be in adult roles, take the role so seriously. If someone does not play along exactly as they think they should, children often get anygry with that person. I also liked seeing the Piaget techniques that were used in the video. It was interesting to see the 2 different children in the different stages Piaget has defined. I also really liked learning about the linguistic development. I loved when the professor said to have lots of stories and language in the classroom.

So What?

So... I plan to have lots of stories in my classroom to expand the vocabulary of the students in my class. One of the classes I am in has a lot of times throughout the day in which the students are able to hear stories from the teacher. They love it, and it gives them a chance to take a break from doing what they have been doing and to let their mind wander and grow. I also want to be able to incorporate play into my classroom. From the time I have spent in the classrooms, I don't see that there is much extra time to dedicate to play but hopefully I can bring it into the activities that I already have prepared. I will need to do more research on ways to do that.

Now What?

Now I plan to take all that I have learned about the importance of reading stories and exposing children to language, and play and incorporate it into my future classroom. I also want to include lots of stories as I had said before.