Developmental theories of learning

Developmental theories of learning have to do with the additional learning tasks individuals can accomplish as they mature mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Although this maturation actually progresses in slow, continuous fashion, it is often described as proceeding in stages.

Understanding some principles from developmental theory can help in your work. Here are some principles to apply:

• Understand that all humans pass through stages of development.
• Respect individual differences based on developmental stages.
• Be aware of the strengths and limitations of learners at different stages of development.
• Assess learner readiness to read and write.
• Provide instruction appropriate to the learner's level of development.

Many names are associated with developmental research. The following people and their stages of development are important in the field of development theory:

• Levinson
• Erickson
• Piaget

• Developmental stages: Levinson
• Developmental stages: Erickson
• Developmental stages: Piaget

• Learning theories

See the following portions of online books for more information:

• Cognition and Learning, Developmental theories

• Overview module: Developmental theories of learning
• In overview module: Learning theories, by Patricia M. Davis
• In overview module: Learning research, by Patricia M. Davis
• In overview module: Reading and learning research, by Kenneth A. Boothe (contributor) and Leah B. Walter (contributor)
• In modular book: Implement a literacy program, by Carole P. Spaeth (compiler) and Leah B. Walter (compiler)
• In bookshelf: Literacy

This page is an extract from the LinguaLinks Library, Version 4.0, published on CD-ROM by SIL International, 1999. [Ordering information.]

Page content last modified: 2 July 1998

© 1999 SIL International