Quick lesson: A theory is a system of beliefs about something. In relationship to child development, a theory is an integrated collection of beliefs about why children behave, think, and feel as they do. Theory usually includes beliefs about the nature of learning and development, their role of heredity and environment, and how adults, other children, schools and communities contribute to the development process.
Okay now that we have gotten the basics out the way. I know your asking,why is that even important? Well I must say I'm glad you asked. It is VERY important for the construction of your classroom environment. Understanding why children do what they do at certain ages or periods of their lives and why they do certain things gives the teacher knowledge and understanding to appropriately handle situations and/or problems that occur with students in the classroom. Most importantly it helps and guides teachers in understanding how students learn and acquire information. So with all of that being said. Who am I developmentally? After reading and reflecting I would have to say I am a smoothie of theorists. My smoothie would consist of one cup of Lev Vygotsky and his sociocultural views, a half cup of Jean Piaget and his cognitive development views, one tablespoon of B.F. Skinner and his operant conditioning views, and a couple of teaspoons of Urie Bronfenbrenner and his ecological views. That's quite a smoothie now that I look at it,but I would have to justify it by saying I plan on being quite an exceptional teacher! What kind of theorist would that classify me as? A sociocultural- cognitive developmental- ecological systems- behavioral theorist! Oooh that sounds good! That makes me excited! But do you understand what I am referencing to? Regardless, I am honored to explain to you MY theory.
First let me ask, are you ready? Well ready or not here it goes. Lev Vygotsky's sociocultural theory argues that children construct knowledge through action he states when children solve problems with concrete objects they acquire new concepts. Independent thinking of the child is the ultimate goal and through scaffolding a teacher, parent, or peer promotes intellectual development. Jean Piaget's cognitive-development theory states that knowledge is constructed through the action of the learner. Learning involves mental action, the learner must do something mentally with new information to really learn from it. Piaget argues through assimilation and accommodation humans advance through stages of cognitive development. Urie Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory states that there are multiple ecologies that affect development, and he has proposed that these ecologies lie in distinct layers or ecological systems around the developing human. Bronfenbrenner's microsystem consists of all institutions, experiences, and influences with the child's immediate environment. Stating that the ecological systems can affect children both directly and indirectly. Lastly, B.F. Skinner's behavioral theory of operant conditioning states that children's desirable behaviors when rewarded by adults are more likely to perform such behaviors. By breaking down learning into manageable units and rewarding small steps forward being key features of his theory.
Children need to be stimulated in all areas developmentally. By knowing how to promote their growth intellectually and cognitively and giving them the proper praise along the way I believe that the child will thrive and grow to be the best individual they know to be. To help a child developmentally I would give them my all as a teacher as I would expect them to give their all as a student. It has to be a relationship where all parties involved put forth their best efforts. Well this started off being a quick blog of my thoughts to almost an essay. However, I'm glad I could introduce myself academically. And with that I will sign off... be prosperous and remember our little learners love to play so keep them FIRST.
-- Every little leaner's advocate AJF
