What are the two main problems that modern researchers have with Piaget’s sensorimotor stage? What are his contributions to the field of research on infant cognition?
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: Follow-up research on Piaget’s sensorimotor stage yields broad agreement on two issues. First, many cognitive changes of infancy are gradual and continuous rather that abrupt and stagelike, as Piaget thought. Second, rather than developing together, various aspects of infant cognition change unevenly because of the challenges posed by different types of tasks and infants’ varying experiences with them. Nonetheless, Piaget made enormous contributions. His work inspired a wealth of research on infant cognition, including studies that challenged his theory. Today, researchers are far from consensus on how to modify or replace his account of infant cognitive development, and some believe that his general approach continues to make sense and fits considerable evidence. Piaget’s observations also have been of great practical value. Teachers and caregivers continue to look to the sensorimotor stage for guidelines on how to create developmentally appropriate environments for infants and toddlers.
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A. restraint and seclusion. B. normal social interaction. C. individual attention from the hospital staff. D. careful nurturance.
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