Child Development & Learning Theory Flashcards
7 cards from real PTC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Child Development & Learning Theory flashcards as text
The term 'developmentally appropriate practice' (DAP) in early childhood education primarily means:
Answer: Designing instruction based on age, individual differences, and cultural context
DAP, as defined by NAEYC, requires that teaching be based on knowledge of child development, individual children's strengths, and cultural/social contexts.
Which type of play, common in preschool settings, involves children playing near each other but not together?
Answer: Parallel play
Parallel play occurs when children play alongside one another using similar materials but without direct interaction, and is typical between ages 2–3.
A teacher applying Vygotsky's theory would most likely:
Answer: Use peer collaboration and guided instruction to stretch student thinking
Vygotsky's theory emphasizes social interaction and scaffolding; teachers facilitate learning by pairing students and guiding them through tasks just beyond their independent ability.
Lawrence Kohlberg's stages of moral development are organized into three levels. At the 'Conventional' level, individuals base moral decisions on:
Answer: Maintaining social order and meeting others' expectations
At the Conventional level (stages 3–4), individuals conform to social norms, seek approval, and uphold laws and social order as the basis for moral behavior.
Which of the following best reflects the principle of 'readiness' in child development?
Answer: Instruction should be introduced only when a child has the developmental foundation for it
Readiness refers to the idea that learning is most effective when introduced at the point where a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional development supports it.
According to Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, which system most directly influences a child's development through daily interactions?
Answer: Microsystem
The microsystem is the immediate environment (family, school, peers) in which a child directly participates and which has the most direct influence on development.
A student struggles with reading but excels in art and spatial reasoning. Applying Gardner's theory, the teacher would most appropriately:
Answer: Use visual and spatial activities to reinforce literacy concepts
Gardner's Multiple Intelligences theory suggests leveraging a student's strengths (e.g., visual-spatial intelligence) to support areas of challenge, making learning more accessible.