Review the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, and Erikson. This week\'s weblinks unde

Question

Review the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, and Erikson. This week's weblinks under the “Activities & Resources” tab will connect you to articles about each of these. After you have reviewed these theories, consider the case study below.

Tommy is 12 years old and has just changed schools because his parents moved again. He did not do well in his previous five schools. Now he is living next-door to his uncle, who likes him a lot and is teaching him about car engines and computers. In his new school, he is becoming a good student. His teachers are surprised but pleased. He is even helping his younger brother with his studies.

Using the information you learned about the development theories, describe how one or more of these major theorists might explain Tommy’s changes. After using ideas from these theories, briefly add your own ideas you have about Tommy’s changes in behavior. Why do you think he has improved in school?

Explanation / Answer

Vygotsky's social interaction theory can be used to describe the changes in Tomy. Vygotsky focussed on social interaction and community interaction to be the driving force in a child to learn. With respect to Tommy's case, his parents kept shifting from one school to another and he did not get enough time to make friends and perhaps his parents did not put an effort to sit with him and play. Whereas, his uncle started communicating with him which can be a factor in bringing about the change.

Reflecting on Piaget's cognitive development, he believed that intelligence was not fixed and it nurtured and grew because of social interaction. His theory can also be used to validate the case study.

He has improved in school due to social interaction which has been brought about by his uncle,

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