• What are some of the implications of Piaget for teachers? In other words, how could you, as a teacher, use some of Piaget's ideas and theories?

Jean Piaget is a world renounced leader in the understanding of intellectual and cognitive development. Piaget mentions several implications that can be used in the classroom as a future educator. One proposal suggests that teachers should only set tasks that the child is "ready" for. Teachers should implement disequilibrium. This means that teachers must provide students with learning opportunities that allow them to advance to each developmental stage. Teachers should also be concerned with the process of learning, rather than the end result. Children should be encouraged to learn because teaches act as guides to a child’s curriculum. Each process I would be able to use in my classroom.

 

• What are some of the criticisms directed towards Piaget and his theory?

Piaget received criticism towards his theory of cognitive theory. Some individual’s criticism believed that Piaget underestimated the child’s intellectual ability. Piaget received criticism about how his theory stated that thinking within a particular group would receive all similar scores. Individuals believed the idea of social involvement was not acknowledged, as well as culture being overlooked. Finally, the question arose whether Piaget and his theory were dependable and reliable.

 

• What is the "Zone of Proximal Development?

The “Zone of Proximal Development” states that a child’s learning progress is shaped by their social influence. Lev Vygotsky idea involved independent problem solving and problem solving with the direction of adults. This particular idea is described as what a learner can do with help, as well as without. Vygotsky stated that a child will follow an adult’s example until they are capable to perform tasks without help. Finally, Vygotsky believed that educations role is to give children experiences within their own stage of development.

 

• What are some criticisms of Vygotsky's theory?

Vygotsky’s received the same type of criticisms just like Piaget received. Although Vygotsky’s theory is not as widely discusses as Piaget’s theory, it still provides areas of concerns. The main area of concern lies with the idea of the culture aspect. Experts have had difficulties in apply Vygotsky’s theory in all areas of culture. Overall, Vygotsky’s theory is evident of very influential implications towards education.

 

• What are some of the implications of Vygotsky for teachers? In other words, how could you, as a teacher, use some of Vygotsky's ideas and theories?

Vygotsky has multiple implications that apply to current and future teachers. His implication on education includes the belief that education is used to develop a child’s personality. Second, he believes that effective learning comes from active involvement from the learner. Thirdly, education is used to facilitate the development the creative potential of students. Finally, schools should provide the tools that learners need to internalize the ways of thinking. Each belief is essential in a child’s education. I could use Vygotsky’s implications to make sure that the student is kept active and interested in the classroom.

 

• Summary

This particular lesson pertained Piaget’s theory on cognitive development, and Vygotsky’s theory about social constructivism. Both theories are can be beneficial in the classroom for teachers nationwide. Piaget mentioned that educators should only set tasks that the child is "ready" for. I completely agree about this concept because this will make sure that the student understands the concept. Vygotsky believed schools should provide the tools that learners need to internalize the ways of thinking. This concept is extremely important in the classroom. Overall both members are very intellectual and provide unique concepts to help better the classroom.