The role of private speech as mediator of attention in problem solving tasks among normally achieving pre-school children.
Date
2000
Authors
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Abstract
This research project attempted to test assumptions
about the development of private speech' and its
relationship to attentional modes of engagement, and
task performance. Results showed an ontogenetic
trend from audible, externalised types of private
speech to less audible, more internalised forms,
consistent with Vygotsky's assumption that private
speech undergoes a curvilinear course of
development. Use of on-task private speech was
accompanied by greater task attentional focus in the
form of motor and looking behaviourial modes of
engagement and a reduction in non-attention
behaviour and successful performance in problem-solving.
"The relation of word to thought, and the creation
of new concepts is a complex, delicate and enigmatic
process unfolding in our soul." (Tolstoy, 1903, 143,
in Vygotsky, 1986)
Description
Thesis (M.A.) - University of Natal, Durban, 2000
Keywords
Children--Language., Attention., Cognition in children., Child development., Preschool children., Social interaction in children.