Deep Learningand Human Development
Jan Armstrong, University of New Mexico
- It is important to understand child life from the child'spoint of view. This means understanding how the way we see and make senseof the world is affected by (a partial byproduct of)cognitive-developmental factors. The same applies to understandingadolescents and adults of all ages.
- Physical, cognitive and social capacities(systems) are intertwined. A change in how we understand the world(perspective taking, for example) has implications for how we interactwith others (playing organized games in groups) which in turn has animpact on physical development (motor activity, development of athleticand perceptual skills). Conversely, playing games (which entails motor activity and cognitive-perceptual activity) providesexperiences with groups (social activity) that fosters new understandings aboutthe physical and social (cognitive, perceptual, moral)universe.
- Development is profoundly affected by social context (cultureand social institutions).
- Our beliefs about the nature of development - what is normaland what is not normal - are anchored in a particular social, historicaland cultural context.
- Understanding human development can help you betterunderstand your own life experiences and life course. It can fosterenhanced self-understanding and personal growth.
- Beneficial societal change is possible and individuals and groups can change social institutions and policiesfor the better. Teachers can be (are) change agents and public schoolssimultaneously preserve, and challenge the status quo.
- Understandinghuman development deeply and in context can help us betterappreciate human wisdom and human fallibility. This, in turn, can help usbecome more creative, innovative and effectiveteachers.
- Physical, cognitive and social capacities(systems) are intertwined. A change in how we understand the world(perspective taking, for example) has implications for how we interactwith others (playing organized games in groups) which in turn has animpact on physical development (motor activity, development of athleticand perceptual skills). Conversely, playing games (which entails motor activity and cognitive-perceptual activity) providesexperiences with groups (social activity) that fosters new understandings aboutthe physical and social (cognitive, perceptual, moral)universe.
Created: 4/6/03 Last update: 3/21/10
