Chapter 3 Understanding Human Development 77
Throughout your teaching career, more theories will emerge as
knowledge about human development grows. This makes teaching and
learning exciting. For example, in recent years scientists have been debat-
ing whether the specifi c characteristics or traits of people, such as math-
ematical problem-solving abilities, are inborn or learned. Gaining greater
understanding of the way humans learn would help teachers develop more
effective teaching strategies.
3-7
By understanding
different
developmental
theories, teachers
can apply them to
their own classroom
situations.
Summary Summary
The study of human development provides insight to how people
change from birth to old age. These include the progression seen in
physical growth, intellectual or cognitive abilities, and social and emotional
development. General principles of development have been identifi ed
that are helpful in understanding how people change throughout life.
In trying to understand the precise nature of human development,
researchers observe, experiment, and study people. They form theories
based on their fi ndings. The developmental theories try to explain and
predict behavior. These range from the basic debate over the impact of
heredity versus environment to theories that seek to explain learning,
personality, and moral development.
Theories are not facts, but they help people better understand human
development. This is especially helpful for teachers whose work is to help
their students develop as human beings, not just to teach them information.