FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

According to Piaget, social knowledge is developed primarily through what mechanism?

1. Physical interaction

2. Imitation

3. Custom and social conventions

4. Trial and error

The correct answer is: Custom and social conventions

Piaget emphasizes the role of social interactions in the development of knowledge, particularly through social conventions and customs. According to his theory, children learn about their culture and society through shared practices and values that are passed down. This mechanism emphasizes the social context in which children engage, helping them to internalize the norms and conventions that govern behavior and understanding within their community. Through participation in social activities, children observe and mimic the behaviors of others, which shapes their understanding of how to interact socially. This process also involves adapting to the rules and expectations established in their environment. Therefore, social knowledge is not just acquired through individual experiences or physical interactions but is heavily influenced by the collective customs and conventions that exist in their social contexts. This understanding of social knowledge acquisition aligns with Piaget's view of cognitive development as being deeply interwoven with social experiences and cultural practices.