Development — AQA GCSE Psychology
This unit looks at how the brain and thinking develop, including early brain development, Piaget's theory of cognitive development, and influences on education and learning.
Early brain development
The brain develops rapidly before and after birth. Key structures include the brain stem (basic survival functions), the cerebellum (movement and balance), the thalamus (relaying sensory information) and the cerebral cortex (higher thinking). Nature (genes) and nurture (environment and experience) both influence development. Studies show the importance of early experience and stimulation.
Piaget's theory of cognitive development
Jean Piaget proposed that children pass through four stages of cognitive development:
- Sensorimotor (0–2 years) — learning through senses and movement; developing object permanence.
- Pre-operational (2–7) — using language and symbols, but egocentric and lacking conservation.
- Concrete operational (7–11) — logical thinking about concrete objects; understanding conservation.
- Formal operational (11+) — abstract and hypothetical reasoning.
Key concepts: schemas (mental frameworks), assimilation and accommodation. Piaget's research (e.g. the conservation and "three mountains" tasks) supports the stages, but the theory has been criticised for underestimating children's abilities.
Application to education
Piaget's ideas influenced education — for example, discovery learning (children learning actively through exploration) and matching tasks to a child's stage of development. The roles of praise, self-efficacy, and the "fixed vs growth mindset" (Dweck) affect motivation and learning.
Evaluating theories
You should be able to evaluate psychological theories and studies — considering supporting evidence, strengths and weaknesses, and real-world applications (e.g. to teaching).
Exam tips
- Learn Piaget's four stages in order, with a key feature of each.
- Define schema, assimilation, accommodation, conservation and egocentrism.
- Link the theory to education (discovery learning, mindset).
- Be ready to evaluate — strengths, criticisms and applications.