PGCE Child Development and Learning

Question 1

According to Piaget's theory, what characterises the 'formal operational' stage of cognitive development?

Accepted Answer

Adolescents can reason abstractly, think hypothetically and use systematic logic

Answer

Children learn primarily through physical manipulation of objects

Answer

Children begin to use language and symbolic thinking

Answer

Young children are egocentric and cannot take another perspective

Question 2

What is 'attachment theory' (Bowlby) and why is it relevant to classroom practice?

Accepted Answer

The theory that early secure attachments with caregivers form a foundation for emotional regulation, trust and learning

Answer

A theory about how pupils become attached to particular subjects or teachers

Answer

A framework for measuring the quality of the relationship between a pupil and their school

Answer

Bowlby attachment theory applies only to EYFS settings, not primary or secondary schools

Question 3

What does 'executive function' refer to in child development, and why does it matter for school readiness?

Accepted Answer

A set of cognitive skills including working memory, cognitive flexibility and inhibitory control that underpin learning and self-regulation

Answer

The ability of school governors to execute school improvement plans

Answer

The process by which teachers execute their lesson plans effectively

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A measure of a pupil overall intelligence (IQ)

Question 4

What is Erikson's stage of 'identity vs role confusion' and at what developmental stage does it occur?

Accepted Answer

Adolescence (approximately 12-18 years), when young people explore identity, values and future direction

Answer

Early childhood (2-3 years), when children explore their physical environment

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Middle childhood (6-11 years), when children develop competence through school tasks

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Early adulthood (18-25 years), when people form intimate relationships

Question 5

What does 'brain plasticity' (neuroplasticity) mean and what are its implications for teaching?

Accepted Answer

The brain's ability to form new neural connections and reorganise itself throughout life in response to learning and experience

Answer

The brain flexibility in repairing itself after physical injury only

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A measurement of how quickly a pupil can learn new information

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A concept relevant only to early years education, not secondary schools

Question 6

How does Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory inform understanding of children's development?

Accepted Answer

It shows that a child's development is shaped by multiple interacting systems: family, school, community and wider culture

Answer

It focuses exclusively on the genetic factors influencing a child's development

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It argues that peer relationships are the single most important factor in child development

Answer

It is a theory about how school environments physically affect children's health