PSYC 304 Chapter Notes - Chapter 5: Working Memory, Noam Chomsky, Information Processing
Document Summary
Jean piaget was the first scientist to systematically examine children"s thinking and reasoning. To understand them we must understand how they think, because thinking influences all behavior. Views children and adults as active explores who learn by interacting. We construct and refine our own schemas, or concepts, ideas, and ways of interacting. Constantly adapting and developing in response to experiences. Cognitive development is the result of assimilation and accommodation (piaget). Proposed that we strive for cognitive equilibrium, a balance between assimilation and accommodation. Disequilibrium leads to cognitive growth because of the mismatch between schemas and reality. Piaget believed infants are not capable of mental representation and the ability to remember and think about objects and events when they"re not present. Reflexive activity (0-1 month): strengthens and adapts reflexes. Ex: newborn shows a different sucking response to a nipple vs. a pacifier. Primary circular reactions (1-4 months): repeats motor actions that produce interesting outcomes that are centered toward the body.