Pre-existing cognitive development

Definition

Pre-existing cognitive development refers to the cognitive abilities and skills that an individual has already acquired before engaging in language learning. It emphasizes how prior knowledge and cognitive abilities play a crucial role in language acquisition.

Related terms

Schema: Mental frameworks or structures that organize and interpret information. They help us make sense of new experiences based on our existing knowledge.

Cognitive Development: The growth and change in intellectual capabilities, such as memory, problem-solving, and attention span, that occur throughout one's lifespan.

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): The range of tasks that individuals can perform with the guidance or assistance from more knowledgeable others. It highlights the importance of social interaction in supporting cognitive development.