Reconstructing Constructivism: Causal Models, Bayesian Learning Mechanisms, and the Theory Theory

Autor/inn/en	Gopnik, Alison; Wellman, Henry M.
Titel	Reconstructing Constructivism: Causal Models, Bayesian Learning Mechanisms, and the Theory Theory
Quelle	In: Psychological Bulletin, 138 (2012) 6, S.1085-1108 (24 Seiten) PDF als Volltext Verfügbarkeit
Sprache	englisch
Dokumenttyp	gedruckt; online; Zeitschriftenaufsatz
ISSN	0033-2909
DOI	10.1037/a0028044
Schlagwörter	Causal Models; Theory of Mind; Probability; Cognitive Development; Constructivism (Learning); Bayesian Statistics; Inferences; Intervention + Suchen Sie Ihr Suchwort? Kausalanalyse; Wahrscheinlichkeitsrechnung; Wahrscheinlichkeitstheorie; Kognitive Entwicklung; Inference; Inferenz
Abstract	We propose a new version of the "theory theory" grounded in the computational framework of probabilistic causal models and Bayesian learning. Probabilistic models allow a constructivist but rigorous and detailed approach to cognitive development. They also explain the learning of both more specific causal hypotheses and more abstract framework theories. We outline the new theoretical ideas, explain the computational framework in an intuitive and nontechnical way, and review an extensive but relatively recent body of empirical results that supports these ideas. These include new studies of the mechanisms of learning. Children infer causal structure from statistical information, through their own actions on the world and through observations of the actions of others. Studies demonstrate these learning mechanisms in children from 16 months to 4 years old and include research on causal statistical learning, informal experimentation through play, and imitation and informal pedagogy. They also include studies of the variability and progressive character of intuitive theory change, particularly theory of mind. These studies investigate both the physical and the psychological and social domains. We conclude with suggestions for further collaborative projects between developmental and computational cognitive scientists. (Contains 5 figures.) (As Provided).
Anmerkungen	American Psychological Association. Journals Department, 750 First Street NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242. Tel: 800-374-2721; Tel: 202-336-5510; Fax: 202-336-5502; e-mail: order@apa.org; Web site: http://www.apa.org/publications
Erfasst von	ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Washington, DC
Update	2017/4/10