Development Flashcards
Development
How we change and mature across our lifetimes
Receptors
Parts of the neuron that accept the neurotransmitter from another neuron. They help transmit the message between the neurons
Foetus
The name given to the developing baby during pregnancy, when it has reached eight weeks after conception (and all the major structures have been formed) until birth
Prefrontal cortex
The part of the brain that is located behind the forehead and is associated with making moral decisions
Intelligence
Our ability and potential to learn, think and problem solve
Nervous system
A network of nerve cells and fibres that transmits impulses between parts of the body. The body’s control centre
Neuron
A cell that transmits nerve impulses to send messages between the brain and other parts of the body
Synapse
A gap between two neurons
IQ tests
Intelligence Quotient test which is designed to measure people’s intelligence
Adulthood
From age 20 till death - taking on new responsibilities such as intimate relationships, parenthood and careers
Adolescence
13-19 years old. Body goes through changes as it matures sexually which in turn changes the way you think
Childhood
Birth- 12 years old. Children at the start are reliant on care givers. They gain skills like walking and talking to become more independent.
Pre-natal
From the time when the baby is conceived to when it is born
How do Piagets four stages of cognitive development differ from each other?
People go through different physical and psychological changes in each stage of
What is assimilation?
Assimilation happens when children come across new info and make it fit with what they already know
What is accommodation?
Accommodation happens when children come across new info that does not easily fit with existing new schemas so a new schema needs to be created
What cognitive skills do children show by the end of the concrete operational stage?
Reversibility and conservation
How can the Piaget theory be considered reductionist?
The theory states cog development is driven by age. It ignores other factors that might affect it such as genetic inheritance, emotional state, family upbringing and standard of education
Why might the Piaget theory be criticised for being too rigid?
It does not allow for individual differences. Some people may develop at different rates and this might have something to do with things such as learning difficulties
What are strengths or weaknesses of the Piaget theory?
It can be useful for teachers who can use this info to plan lessons according to the appropriate skills for each stage of development
