Therefore, culture plays a huge role in what things a child will learn.
A culture that emphasizes the arts will yield educational systems more sympathetic to and supportive of the arts. Similarly, cultures that stress science will be more likely to fund science programs in school. Thus, culture affects childhood education on an institutional level too. Finally, what a child values personally is a product of his or her culture. Professional goals and personal goals are shaped by culture, as Vygotsky suggests.
4. What are the criticisms of Kohlberg's theory regarding moral development? What do you think of his theory (your opinion and give examples to support your response). What do you think the criticisms (your opinion and give examples to support your response).
Kohlberg's theory of moral development is critiqued because of its assumption that moral reasoning is based on law and order. The efficacy of justice in determining morality is questionable. For example, some individuals may make moral judgments innately, instinctually, and independently of any external controls. Kohlberg assumes social contracts that may or may not exist in all societies. Therefore, one of the main reasons why Kohlberg's theory of moral development is criticized is because of cultural bias.
Kohlberg's theory has also been criticized for being applicable mainly to men, as Kohlberg researched mainly male subjects. However, the theory seems more culturally biased than biased toward male moral reasoning. Morals are more likely linked to culture than to gender....
Any differences between the genders in terms of moral reasoning are more likely due to socialization than biology.
5. Compare and contrast the Behavioral theory of child development with that of Erikson's theory of psychosocial theory of child development. Give examples to support your response.
Behaviorists focus mainly on the development of self via traditional behavioral learning theories including reinforcement and conditioning. Erikson's theory of psychosocial development centers on stages of ego-development and is surprisingly similar to behaviorism in its emphasis on learning and reinforcement. Both behaviorism and Erikson examine how young egos develop and grow into a cohesive sense of self. Both stress the roles of adults and mentors in shaping the child's psychosocial development. Similarly, both theories note the importance of reinforcement in shaping a child's moral development.
The main difference between the two theories is in their assumptions about how human learning takes place and in their methodologies. Behaviorism is more concerned with contingencies and reflexes and their impact on measurable behavior. Erikson concentrates more on the child's perception of the environment and how that perception affects his or her inner life.
References
Learning Disabilities Association of America (1999). "Early Identification - Motor Skills Milestones." Retrieved Oct 12, 2008 at http://www.ldonline.org/article/6045
Lev Vygotsky." Retrieved Oct 12, 2008 at http://starfsfolk.khi.is/solrunb/vygotsky.htm
