Growth and Developmental Pattern of Learners

Growth and Developmental Pattern of Learners

Concept of growth and development:

The term growth may be limited to the changes in the quantitative aspect i.e increase in size, length, height and weight and expansion of vocabulary etc., the term development implies the overall changes occurring in both the quantitative as well as qualitative aspects.

Crow and Crow say that, “growth refers to the structural and physiological changes, and development is concerned with growth as well as changes in intellect and behavior which result from environment stimulation.”

According to Hurlock, the process of development continues throughout the life in a definite order, and every stage affects the next one.

Three things become clear by Hurlock’s defi nition—

(1) Development point to change.

(2) Development takes place in a defi nite order.

(3) Development has a defi nite direction and aim.

The term “growth” carries a limited and narrower meaning. It is indicative i.e. increase in body, size, weight etc.

1. It is quantitative progress
2. It is physical change
3. It is external in nature
4. stops at certain stage
5. It is physical progress

Development is said to be a complex process in comparison to the process of growth.

1. It is not indicative
2. It qualitative progress
3. It is psychological change
4. It is internal in nature
5. It is continuous process
6. It is cognitive progress

General Characteristics or Principles of Growth and Development:

The process of development has been studied experimentally and otherwise. The studies and researches have highlighted certain significant facts or principles underlying this process.

       

1. Development follows a set pattern
2. Development proceeds from general to specific responses
3. Development is a continuous process
4. Although development is continuous process, yet the tempo of growth is not even
5. Different aspects of growth develop at different rates
6. Most traits are correlated in development
7. Growth is complex. All of its aspects are closely inter-related
8. Growth is a product of the interaction both heredity and environment
9. Each child grows in his own unique way
10. There are wide individual difference
11. Growth is both quantitative and qualitative
12. Development is predictable
13. Principle of spiral versus linear arrangement
14. There are marked individual difference in Growth & Development
15. Development is affected by many factors