Learning Theories for Early Years Practice
Third Edition
March 2025 | 248 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
This third edition showcases captivating full-color photographs, compelling case studies, engaging activities, and thought-provoking discussion points. Each chapter delves into the theorist and the theory, illustrating their practical applications, strengths, weaknesses, and connections to other theorists. This indispensable resource empowers students to create inclusive learning environments.
New to this edition:
- New chapter on Barbara Rogoff and children in cultural communities
- Expanded final section on theorists in the contemporary world, covering vital issues such as mental health, diversity, gender, special educational needs, play, valuing our environments, and artificial intelligence
- Updated case studies and examples
PART 1 EARLY INFLUENCES
John Locke and the Emergence of Empiricism
Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the Concept of ‘Child’
Johann Pestalozzi and the Importance of Nature
Friedrich Froebel and the Importance of Play
Rachel and Margaret McMillan and Social Reform
The Psychodynamic Tradition
Rudolf Steiner and the Changing Needs of Children
Maria Montessori: The Environment and Learning
PART 2 MODERN INFLUENCES
John Dewey and Child-centred Education
Burrhus Skinner and Behaviourism
Jean Piaget: An Enduring Legacy
Lev Vygotsky: Learning and Social Constructivism
John Bowlby and Early Attachment
Albert Bandura and Social Learning Theory
Urie Bronfenbrenner: Learning in the Wider Context
Jerome Bruner and Constructivism
Howard Gardner and Theories of Multiple Intelligence
Reuven Feuerstein and Instrumental Enrichment
Nel Noddings and the Ethics of Care
Te Whariki
Loris Malaguzzi and Reggio Emilia
Carol Dweck and Children’s Mindsets
Guy Claxton: Building Learning Power
Barbara Rogoff: children as Participants in their Cultural Communities
PART 3 CHALLENGES FOR THEORISTS IN A CHANGING WORLD
Challenges for Theorists in a Changing World