Learning Theories in Childhood
- Colette Gray - Stranmillis University College
- Sean MacBlain
Focusing on the early philosophies of learning and key behavioural, cognitive, and social theorists, including Locke, Rousseau, Montessori, Piaget, Vygotsky, Bandura, Bronfenbrenner & Bruner, this popular book provides a comprehensive overview of children's learning. The authors highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each theoretical perspective, and encourage reflection on how different approaches impact on the learning environment. The discussion finishes with an exploration of the new sociology of childhood.
New to this Second Edition are:
· a new chapter on 'What is theory and what is learning?
· a new chapter on ‘The Changing nature of learning’
There is also a new companion website which features:
· journal articles to read alongside each chapter
· podcasts from the authors explaining the key points on each topic
· links to video material discussing key theories and methods.
You can access the books online materials at study.sagepub.com/grayandmacblain2e
Accessibly written, with key questions and recommended reading included, this book is essential for all those studying on child development, early childhood and childhood studies courses, and for anyone interested in understanding more about how children learn and think.
Colette Gray is Head of Research Development and Principal Lecturer in Childhood Studies at Stanmillis University College, Belfast, and Sean MacBlain is Reader in Child Development and Disability at the University of St. Mark & St. John, Plymouth.
For access to the websiteSupplements
Such a useful book in terms of providing a broad introduction to the theorists. I also like the format, and the level of writing - the usual high Sage standard
This book provides a very good overview of the key child development theorists and theories. It is accessible to students at all levels.
A really good overview of learning theories. This is very useful for Access to Higher Education students going on to university studying degrees in Social work and Child nursing
I will certainly be including this in the recommended reading for the module Policy, Philosophy and Provision within the FdA Professional Studies, across its three pathways: Early Childhood, Children & Youth and Education. In particular I will recommend Chapters 3 and 7 for this module. The materials accessed via the companion website, e.g. videos introducing the idea of philosophy to an audience with no previous awareness of the subject will be very useful indeed. Many Thanks for a useful, up-to-date volume containing strong chapters that are relevant to a wide range of modules.
