Child Development & Learning Theories Flashcards

According to Lev Vygotsky, the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) refers to:

Answer: The gap between what a child can do alone and with guidance

The ZPD is the range of tasks a child cannot yet do alone but can accomplish with support from a more knowledgeable other.

Which theorist introduced the concept of 'scaffolding' to describe temporary support given to learners?

Answer: Jerome Bruner

Jerome Bruner developed the scaffolding concept, describing structured support that is gradually removed as the learner gains competence.

In Erikson's stage theory, a preschool child (ages 3–5) faces the psychosocial conflict of:

Answer: Initiative vs. Guilt

Children ages 3–5 are in the Initiative vs. Guilt stage, where they begin asserting control and power over their environment.

A child who learns to say 'please' after receiving praise is an example of which learning principle?

Answer: Positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement occurs when a behavior is strengthened because it is followed by a desirable outcome, such as praise.

Which of the following best describes 'parallel play' in early childhood?

Answer: Children playing near each other without direct interaction

Parallel play involves children playing side by side but independently, a common stage before cooperative play develops.

According to Piaget, children in the preoperational stage typically struggle with:

Answer: Conservation of matter

Preoperational children (ages 2–7) have difficulty understanding conservation — that quantity remains the same despite changes in appearance.

Which developmental milestone is typically expected of a 4-year-old child?

Answer: Hopping on one foot and catching a bounced ball

By age 4, most children can hop on one foot and catch a bounced ball, reflecting normal gross motor development.