adolescence
hdfs 239

cognitive transitions

Cognitive changes include changes in what we know, how we think, and how we think about thinking. In many ways, cognitive changes are the most overlooked aspect of adolescent development, but they may have the most profound impact on adolescent behavior. For example, the introspection and idealism that we associate so strongly with adolescence, the intricate analysis of social interactions, even the style of argument, are all characteristic of a type of abstract thought that younger children are not capable of.

Links of interest:

  • A site from the University of Geneva dedicated to Jean Piaget, one of the giants of developmental psychology.
  • A site on metacognition written by Greg Gay of the University of Toronto. This material was prepared for an informal course on learning to think. It has some especially interesting links and includes information on cognitive styles that might give you some insight into why you like some learning situations and don't like others. You can actually take this course on-line (it's free!) and earn a certificate if you complete all the assignments.
introduction
biological transitions
cognitive transitions
social transitions
families
peer groups
schools
work & leisure
identity
autonomy
intimacy
sexuality
achievement
psychosocial problems
adolescence links
syllabus
schedule
overheads & studyguides
grades