Stage Theory of Cognitive Development—Jean Piaget

Abstract

In everyday parlance, the term theory has several meanings: 1. A coherent body of knowledge that is widely accepted as an explanation for some phenomena; 2. An insight into the natural world which is tentative but which is capable of providing explanations for natural phenomena if true; 3. Principles on which the practice of an activity is based; and 4. An idea that can guide behaviour. This last definition helps in understanding everyday behaviour of individuals. The first two definitions fit well within the fields of natural and applied sciences. In education, especially in teaching and learning, it is the third definition that prevails. In this sense, a theory becomes a versatile tool for understanding certain processes especially how teaching might result in effective learning