The Traditional Teaching Method Criticized by J. Piaget and Active Educational Methods Based on a ‘Logic of Relationships’ as Opposed to Verbalism

Abstract

This research analyzes the effects of socialization on children and adolescents in Jean Piaget’s theory. As a child grows up, they move from the parental social context to an enlarged context represented by the school and the peer group, and thus from a situation of psychological subjection towards superiors to a situation characterized by relationships with peers. If the latter conditions are actually fulfilled, the subject can establish collaborative relationships that will allow them to overcome self-centeredness, develop their intelligence, and come to understand other people’s points of view, including citizens of other nations. It is on this basis that Piaget founds the principles of an educational technique of cooperation, aimed at an effective school education, at autonomous and non-heteronomous moral conduct, and at a fruitful education for peace and international solidarity.