FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of knowledge, according to Piaget, is developed through physical interactions with objects?

1. Cognitive Knowledge

2. Social Knowledge

3. Physical Knowledge

4. Logical-Mathematical Knowledge

The correct answer is: Physical Knowledge

According to Piaget, the type of knowledge developed through physical interactions with objects is referred to as physical knowledge. This concept arises during the sensorimotor stage of cognitive development, which occurs from birth to approximately two years of age. During this stage, children learn about the world primarily by exploring it through their senses and physical actions. Physical knowledge encompasses the understanding of the properties of objects, such as their size, weight, texture, and how they move or behave in different situations. For instance, a child learns about gravity by dropping toys and observing how they fall. This active engagement with the environment is crucial for the development of cognitive skills, as it lays the groundwork for more complex forms of understanding as children grow. In contrast, cognitive knowledge refers more broadly to the mental processes involved in thinking and understanding, while logical-mathematical knowledge relates specifically to problem-solving and reasoning, often developing later through more structured learning. Social knowledge involves understanding social interactions and norms, which emerges through experiences with others rather than direct manipulation of objects. Therefore, the focus on physical interactions in the context of Piaget's developmental theory establishes the importance of hands-on experiences in acquiring physical knowledge.