Straatemeier, Marthe
A complexity appraoch to cognitive learning in young children: Fundamental and applied aspects
Project financed by NWO
Marthe Straatemeier
Psychological Methodology
Department of Psychology
FMG, University of Amsterdam
Roetersstraat 15, 1018 WB Amsterdam
Phone: +31 20 525 6876 / 6870 (secr.)
E-mail: Marthe Straatemeier
Supervisor: Prof. dr H.L.J. van der Maas, dr B.R.J. Jansen
Project running from: 1 June 2005 – 1 June 2009
Summary
Cognitive learning and development in young children are complex dynamic processes. The aim of this project is to test a non-linear dynamical model of cognitive developmental transitions, based on catastrophe theory, across a number of domains of intellectual development. This will be done by using high-frequency measurements in a computerized microgenetic design. This method can give important insights in the developmental processes underlying several cognitive (e.g., proportional reasoning, conservation) and academic skills (e.g., arithmetical abilities), such as the relation between individual variability and transitions. The practical aim is to make a contribution to the construction and testing of a computerized micro-genetic measurement method within schools. This is very important for the innovation of computerized progress-monitoring systems of individual pupils.
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