Kail's Theory Of Cognitive Development

Robert V. Kail addresses the increasing synergy of global and domain-specific theories in his article “Cognitive Development Includes Global and Domain-Specific Processes.” Kail is a part of the Department of Psychological Studies at Purdue University, and his aim in the article is to “present evidence suggesting that both global and domain-specific processes make important contributions to cognitive development” (Kail 445). In order to arrive at his conclusion, Kail highlights the flaws of an either/or system; critiques the advantages and disadvantages of global and domain specific theories separately; provides context for how these two theories have coexisted in the past; and finally arrives to his evaluation on the two theories working together

It’s easy to see where Piaget’s stages come into play throughout an adolescent’s development, but what exactly creates the variance that teachers may see in students? By looking at Kail’s theory of duality between Piaget and other domain specific entries, it’s possible to see how cognitive development may not be so one dimensional. It’s especially interesting for educators to see these different development styles, and have an understanding of how they may apply to the courses they instruct. One particular student may lag behind in the predetermined stage that Piaget has assigned to them. However, to write that student off in every subject may prove to be a costly error. Instead, that student may have a domain-specific style that can be fostered, and expounded upon as a support in the classroom. If educators are more aware of both global and domain specific possibilities they will be better suited to accommodate a wide-range of learners. Creating lesson plans, assessments, and classwork that addresses these multiple stages could lead to more expansive success within the classroom. It would seem that Kail would most likely emphasize these points to educators, urging them to recognize the variance in cognitive development and how that variance applies to the