Who is the proponent of the developmental/cognitive theory?
Detailed Explanation
📌 Core Theoretical Concept:
The proponent of the Cognitive Development Theory is the renowned Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget. According to Piaget, children are active constructors of knowledge or 'little scientists' who build their understanding of the world through their own actions, explorations, and interactions. He demonstrated that children's cognitive growth proceeds through four distinct stages: Sensorimotor, Preoperational, Concrete Operational, and Formal Operational. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.
📊 Key Exam Points:
- Jean Piaget: Father of Cognitive Development, introducing core concepts like Schema, Assimilation, Accommodation, and Equilibration.
- B. F. Skinner (Option a): Proponent of Operant Conditioning, which falls under behaviorism.
- Erik Erikson (Option b): Developed the Psychosocial Development Theory comprising eight life stages.
- John Dewey (Option c): A leading figure in Progressive Education, advocating 'learning by doing'.
📖 Theoretical Reference: In Child Development and Pedagogy (CDP), Piaget's cognitive theory remains a foundational pillar for understanding how children learn and think at different ages. For comprehensive reading, explore Piaget's Cognitive Development.