How the theories of Piaget and Vygotsky will influence the ways you support cognitive development
Discuss how the theories of Piaget and Vygotsky will influence the ways you support cognitive development in the preschool years.
Explain your philosophy of why learning centers are a developmentally appropriate method for supporting the physical development of preschoolers.
Describe your philosophy of supporting vocabulary development of preschoolers.
Explain three resources for families to support them during the preschool stage of development.
Explain why the development of empathy and sympathy are essential to fostering strong peer relations among preschoolers.
Discuss how you will use information shared with you by families (i.e., historical, biological, environmental, societal, familial, and cultural influences) to support their preschooler’s development.
Describe how you will differentiate instruction to support the unique needs of preschoolers across all developmental domains.
Sample Answer
Supporting Preschool Development: A Theoretical and Practical Approach
Cognitive Development:
- Piaget: My approach will be informed by Piaget’s stages of cognitive development. I will provide activities that allow preschoolers to explore and manipulate their environment through sensory play (sensory-motor stage), pretend play (preoperational stage), and concrete activities (concrete operational stage). I will encourage questioning, curiosity, and problem-solving to support their mental development.
- Vygotsky: Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) will guide my interactions. I will provide scaffolding support, challenging children slightly beyond their individual capabilities while offering appropriate guidance and assistance. This fosters independence and growth within the ZPD.