In this post, we present short notes on the Principles of Development, explained simply and systematically for quick understanding and revision, beneficial for B.Ed students. Understanding how children grow and develop is an essential part of educational psychology.
As a part of the Growth and Development chapter in Childhood and Growing Up, these principles provide the foundation for learning how children acquire physical, cognitive, emotional, and social skills.
Principles of Development
The principles of development describe the fundamental characteristics and patterns of human growth and development. These principles apply to physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across different stages of life.
Development: Development is a systematic process that includes physical, social, emotional, and cognitive changes.
- Development is a lifelong process from the womb to the tomb.
- It is both quantitative and qualitative.
- It includes every aspect of life, human beings experience throughout their journey, from birth to death.
According to Hurlock
”Development is not confined to growth alone, but it is a systematic and “consistent” change involving a progressive sequence of changes towards the goal of adulthood, resulting in new features and abilities appearing.”
The principles of development describe the fundamental characteristics and patterns of human growth and development. These principles apply to physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across different stages of life.
- Development is Lifelong:
Development starts from birth and continues throughout life. - Development Proceeds from General to Specific:
A baby moves its whole body before learning to move specific parts (e.g., waving arms before grasping objects). - Development is a Continuous Process:
It is a gradual process, though the rate may vary at different stages. - Development is Sequential:
It follows a definite order (e.g., a child learns to sit before standing and walking). i.e, Cephalocaudal and Proximodistal Trends:
Cephalocaudal:
Development proceeds from head to toe (e.g., infants first gain control over head movements before leg movements).
Proximodistal:
Development moves from the center of the body outward (e.g., children control arm movements before finger movements). - Different Aspects of Development are Interrelated:
Physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development all influence one another. - Development varies from Person to Person: The rate of development differs due to heredity, environment, and experiences. Early Experiences Have a Strong Impact on Development:
- Development is the product of maturation and learning
A child’s early environment, nutrition, and learning experiences play a crucial role in their future development. Development is Predictable but Individualistic. While general patterns exist, each child develops at their own pace.
Difference between Growth and Development
