. In each of these stages specific processes occur which act as building blocks upon which further development rests. Each scheme can combine with another scheme to form larger units that, in turn, form increasingly complex and sophisticated models of the world. The following list shows each of the four stages of development and their attendant processes defined by Piaget:
“Knows” through active interaction with environment
Becomes aware of cause-effect relationships
Learns that objects exist even when not visible
Crudely imitates the actions of others
Begins with high level of egocentrism
Language and mental representations develop
Objects are classified on one characteristic at a time
Concrete Operations (7 – 12 Years)
Develops conservation of volume, length, mass, etc.
Organizes objects into ordered categories
Understands relational terms (e.g. bigger than, above)
Formal Operations State (Over 12 Years)
Thinking becomes abstract and symbolic
A sense of hypothetical concepts develops
(Gerow, Brothern and Newell, 1992, 249)
Gerow (et al, 1992) points out that Piaget was not alone among psychologists in arguing that cognitive development takes place in specific, well-defined stages. Sigmund Freud had earlier offered his own definitions of human developmental stages, while Erik Erikson also created a theory of psychosocial development during which the human being experiences development in a series of unique stages. What is significant with respect to stage theories of development is that they offer the basic framework for investigating and understanding cognitive development, including individual variations. This has important ramifications for educators with respect to learning and teaching.
Piaget argued that if improper development occurs during any of the four stages of development, it will have a major impact on the child’s later cognitive development. Piaget also be...