Question

What is the primary mode of representation in Bruner's Symbolic stage of cognitive development?

1. The Symbolic stage uses language and other symbols for representation.
2. This stage is characterized by learning through direct physical actions.
3. Mental images are the main way concepts are formed in this stage.

• A. 1 only
• B. 2, 3
• C. 2 only
• D. 3 only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 only

Bruner's stages of cognitive development

• The famous cognitive psychologist Bruner has not associated these stages with chronological age. The stages are described in terms of the nature of the experiences used by an individual to form concepts. And thus build up a cognitive structure.

• These experiences that determine the level of the concepts formed have been graded by Bruner in the hierarchical order of abstraction.

• According to Bruner the thinking of the child develops In 3 stages. He calls them :

1. Enactive stage

2. Iconic stage

3. Symbolic stage

1.Enactive stage

• In this first stage cognitive experiences are received and represented through motor activities.

• It is the stage of learning through physical actions.

2. Iconic stage

• In this second stage cognitive experiences are received and represented through the mental images or icons of perceptual experiences that are independent of motor actions.

3. Symbolic stages

• Cognitive experiences are received and represented through symbols. The most important of these being language.

• Here actions and images are translated into words which In turn lead to abstract thinking.

• In ordinary language it could be said that these are the stage in which cognitive development takes place through actions, images and languages.

• To begin with the cognitive experience of the child is at the level of bodily actions. Then he begin to form images and finally acquires cognitive development with the help of language.