Cognitive Development

The aim of this program is to examine Piaget's theory and to critically evaluate it in light of modern research. The study of child development in the 20th century has revolved around Jean Piaget's theories, and the program clearly describes their central themes, covering the Cognitive Stages of Development from birth to twelve years old, giving illustrations of children's behavior at each level. Recent research is examined in relation to each stage and comparisons drawn with the theories of Jerome Bruner. The program concludes that children are more cognitively capable at an earlier age than Piaget suggested, but it is the ages rather than the stages that are disputed. Current and future developments such as Metacognition and Theory of Mind are outlined and recent research findings reported. (58 minutes, color