Theories of Cognitive Development in Relation to Mathematical Knowledge

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Introduction: In order to survive the world around us that is fully designed on mathematical notions, young children need to acquire mathematical knowledge. Hence, this aspect when attained effectively places them in the right position to face the distinct real world of mathematics. Therefore, it is essential to acknowledge how these children obtain numeracy skills and their capabilities through the theories of cognitive development presented by many influential theorists. The following essay elaborates a chosen theory of cognitive development in relation to mathematical knowledge with a link to the Australian Curriculum to demonstrate how the document chosen allows for scaffolding of children’s learning for kindergarten students. Also, it demonstrates a comparison of the chosen theory with other theories and an explanation on which theory is best suited to the learning and teaching of math for foundation year students. Theory of cognitive development: The theories of cognitive development presented are related to the understanding and revealing of the intellectual functions and procedures concerned with the gaining, organizing and usage of knowledge. Lev Vygotsky is a social constructivist theorist that has presented an influential theory of cognitive development. He believed that the process of intellectual development occurs within young children when adopting ideas from their interactions and experiences with the social world. They experience thoughts through observation, taking instructions from adults and early involvements within their social and cultural settings. When collaborating, the child begins to implement ideas learnt from his surrounding through using a tool which is self-talk. Additionally, t... ... middle of paper ... ...pmentally appropriate practice in early childhood programs serving children from birth through age 8 (3rd Ed.). Washington, Dc: NAEYC. Copley, J. V. (2010). The Young Child and Mathematics (pp. 1-11). Retrieved January 4, 2014 from: http://www.naeyc.org/store/files/store/TOC/167.pd. Eddy, S. (2010). Theories of Cognitive Development: Lev Vygotsky. Retrieved January 4, 2014 from: http://psychohawks.wordpress.com/2010/11/03/theories-of-cognitive-development-lev-vygotsky/. Kozulin, A. (2003). Vygotsky's educational theory in cultural context. UK; New York: Cambridge University Press. Nixon, D. & Aldwinckle, M. (2005). Exploring Child Development from Three to Six Years. Chapter 4: Play (pp. 98-119). Second Edition: Thomson Learning. Westwood, P. (2008). What Teachers Need to Know about Numeracy. Chapter 3: The Development of Number and Concepts (pp24-32).

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