Assignment 2 2025
Unique #:
Due Date: 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
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, QUESTION 1
1.1. Three Prominent Theorists in Early Childhood Education (ECE)
The three prominent theorists whose approaches have had a profound impact on
Early Childhood Education (ECE) are
Jean Piaget,
Lev Vygotsky, and
Maria Montessori.
1.2. Summary of Each Theorist's Approach
Jean Piaget: Piaget’s theory of cognitive development emphasizes that
children construct knowledge through self-discovery and active
exploration. He identified four developmental stages (sensorimotor,
preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational), each
outlining how children's thinking evolves as they grow.
Lev Vygotsky: Vygotsky highlighted the role of social interaction in
learning and introduced the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), where
children learn best with guidance from a more knowledgeable person. His
theory emphasizes scaffolding (temporary support) and the importance of
language and play in cognitive development.
Maria Montessori: Montessori believed in sensory learning and self-
directed education. She emphasized creating a prepared environment
where children could explore independently using hands-on materials.
Montessori also advocated for teachers as facilitators, allowing children to
develop autonomy and practical life skills.
1.3. Montessori Principle: Learning through Hands-On Experiences
Principle: Learning Through Hands-On Experiences
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