Jean Piaget as a Pioneer of Modern Psychology: Critical Review

Saeed Mohammed Noori Taher

doi:10.21271/zjhs.25.5.23

Saeed Mohammed Noori Taher College of Education - Mathematics Department\ Salahaddin University-Erbil

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21271/zjhs.25.5.23

Keywords: Child development, Human abilities, Cognitive development

Abstract

There is increased interest in Jean Piaget contributions in modern psychology because his works focused on one of the most significant fields in human’s life. However, Piaget’s theory has been criticized due to shortcoming in methodology, ambiguity in his style, and characterizing human abilities negatively. This paper aimed to review some reasons that led researchers to criticize Piaget’s theory. Also, presenting some of his contributions in child development, which have led his theories to be considered as effective ones in modern psychology. This review suggested that majority of criticisms could be regarded to misunderstand of Piaget’s contributions, language barriers and his new methods in search. In addition, some of his contribution such as his theory of cognitive development and his contribution to characterize thinking of child with adult still regarded as an effective in modern psychology. Future research of Piaget is recommended to understand his purposes, subjects, and concepts from within.

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