Two children are in the same stage of cognitive development and both can't solve problems involving conservation of number. However, when one of the children is given assistance, she is able to correctly solve such problems. When the other child receives the same help, he is still unable to solve them. This example best demonstrates
A)how cognitive and moral reasoning can interact with one another
B)how early problems with object permanence can influence later development
C)the importance of egocentrism with regard to problem solving
D)the concept of a proximal zone of development

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The example illustrates the concept of the zone of proximal development, which refers to the difference between what a learner can do without help and what he or she can achieve with guidance and encouragement from a skilled partner. The child who could solve the problems with assistance was operating within her zone of proximal development, whereas the other child was not, indicating that the task was beyond his current capabilities even with help.

Two Children Are in the Same Stage of Cognitive Development