Weekly Series — Developing Young Thinkers
Higher mental functions develop through constant practice and internalization of higher mental tools. By gaining access to higher mental functions children can extend their minds capabilities, gain control over their own behavior, and develop independence
In the previous article Jenny was learning to raise her hand and wait her turn and through the use of a reminder card. With practice she will begin to internalize this behavior and not need the card anymore. She is using a mental tool to help develop her focused attention.
According to Vygotsky, there are four main types of higher mental functions that are developed by using these mental tools.
1 Mediated Perceptions — the ability to distinguish things into different categories or see things in different ways. We are using mediated perceptions when we can distinguish between colors, i.e. placing turquoise blue in a different category than sky blue.
2. Focused Attention — the ability to concentrate on any stimulus, whether or not it is exceptionally interesting or striking.
3. Deliberate Memory- refers to the use of memory strategies to remember something.
4. Logical Thinking — the ability to solve problems mentally using logic and other strategies.
The absence of developing higher mental functions has long term consequences for learning. Mental tools influence the level of abstract thinking a child can attain. When children have attained higher mental functions, they are no longer reactive learners. They can take more responsibility for learning on their own. Their learning becomes a self directed process.
Acquiring higher mental functions enable children to plan ahead and create complex solutions to problems. It leads them to work with others towards a common goal.
I hope this was helpful. All your comments and input are greatly appreciated. Don’t forget to follow us on Medium and join our newsletter at daVinci Publishing
