researchers randomly assigned adolescents to either a single grade classroom or a mixed age classroom this is an example of a

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Human Growth and Development Final Exam Answers

1. Researchers randomly assigned adolescents to either a single-grade classroom or a mixed-age classroom. This is an example of a __________.

A. naturalistic observation
B. case study
C. natural experiment
D. field experiment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the researchers randomly assigned adolescents to either a single-grade classroom or a mixed-age classroom, which is an example of a field experiment. A field experiment involves manipulating independent variables in a natural setting to observe the effects on participants. This design allows for more control over variables compared to naturalistic observation, case studies, or natural experiments. Naturalistic observation involves observing subjects in their natural environment without manipulating any variables. A case study focuses on in-depth analysis of a single individual or a small group. A natural experiment involves observing naturally occurring events without intervention or manipulation by the researcher.

2. During pregnancy, the placenta __________.

A. forms in the second trimester of pregnancy
B. encloses the developing organism in amniotic fluid
C. contains one large vein that delivers nutrients to the embryo
D. delivers food and oxygen to the developing organism

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The placenta delivers food and oxygen to the developing organism during pregnancy. It is a temporary organ that forms in the first trimester of pregnancy. Choice A is incorrect as the placenta forms in the first trimester, not the second trimester. Choice B is incorrect as the amniotic sac, not the placenta, encloses the developing organism in amniotic fluid. Choice C is incorrect as the placenta contains blood vessels (arteries and veins) that deliver nutrients to the embryo, not just one large vein.

3. What is a major strength of the longitudinal design?

A. Examine relationships between early and later behaviors
B. Collect a large amount of data in a short time span
C. Explore similarities among children of different cohorts
D. Study participants differing in age at the same point in time

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A major strength of the longitudinal design is that researchers can examine relationships between early and later behaviors. This design allows researchers to observe and track changes in the same participants over an extended period of time, providing valuable insights into developmental trajectories and how behaviors are connected across different stages of life. Choice B is incorrect because longitudinal studies track changes over time, not necessarily collect a large amount of data in a short time span. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to cross-sectional studies rather than longitudinal studies. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a cross-sectional design where participants of different ages are studied at the same time.

4. Vygotsky's emphasis on culture and social experience led him to __________.

A. understand the interaction between biological factors and social influences in cognitive development
B. overemphasize the role of heredity in cognitive change
C. emphasize children's independent efforts to make sense of their world
D. place too much emphasis on children's capacity to shape their own development

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Vygotsky's emphasis on culture and social experience did not lead him to neglect the biological side of development. Instead, he believed that biological factors and social influences interact to shape cognitive development. Choice A is correct because it reflects Vygotsky's view that biological factors and social experiences work together in cognitive development. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as Vygotsky's emphasis was not on overemphasizing heredity, focusing solely on independent efforts of children, or placing too much emphasis on children's capacity to shape their own development.

5. Piaget's critics point out that __________.

A. he overestimated the competencies of infants and young children
B. his stagewise account pays insufficient attention to social and cultural influences
C. discovery learning rather than adult teaching is the best way to foster development
D. children's performances on Piagetian tasks cannot be improved with training

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Piaget's critics point out that his stagewise account pays insufficient attention to social and cultural influences. Critics argue that Piaget's theory does not fully consider the impact of social interactions, cultural differences, and individual experiences on children's cognitive development. They believe that these factors play a crucial role in shaping a child's thinking and problem-solving abilities, which should be given more emphasis. Choice A is incorrect because Piaget's critics do not focus on him overestimating the competencies of infants and young children. Choice C is incorrect as it discusses a different aspect of learning rather than the critique of Piaget's theory. Choice D is also incorrect since critics do not argue that children's performances on Piagetian tasks cannot be improved with training.